Page 362 - New Medley 5 Semester 1

Climatic Conditions

The climate of Saudi Arabia is hot and dry almost throughout the year.

During the daytime, the Sun shines very brightly. During the summer

season (from May to September) the days are very hot and the nights
are cool. The temperature during the daytime can be more than 50°C.

During the winter season (from October to April), the days are warm
and the nights are very cold. There is a great difference of temperature

between day and night. There is hardly any rainfall. The most common
feature in all seasons are the dust storms. The coastal areas have mild

climate. Abha, a hill station, is cool in the summer.

Natural Vegetation and Wildlife

A major part of Saudi Arabia has

no plants. Special plants which can
survive in hot and dry weather are

found in some areas. Such plants have
long roots and thorns. The long roots

can go deep into the Earth in search
of water. Cacti are the common

plants, whose leaves are reduced to

thorns. And it helps them reduce
transpiration water.

Saudi Arabia is not rich in wildlife.
Those who can live with the shortage Cacti

of water and food can survive. Many
types of insects, spiders, reptiles, birds and mammals are found here.

Gazelles, jackals and foxes move swiftly on desert sand. Arabian horses
are famous for their faithfulness.

Camel, known as the ship of the desert, is a useful animal in the desert.
It can live without food and water for many days. Its wide padded feet

do not sink into the sand. Thus, they can move across the desert swiftly.

The camels can live without food and water for many days.

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