Vegetation
In a striking environmental transformation, the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia has experienced an extraordinary 600% increase in vegetation cover over the past five months, as reported by Gulf News on Saturday. The Saudi National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification revealed that this remarkable surge occurred between August and December 2023.
Attributing the surge to favorable rainy conditions during this period, the Saudi government’s data indicated that certain areas received up to 200mm of rainfall. The analysis showed that in August of the preceding year, the green cover area in Makkah measured around 3,529.4 square kilometers, accounting for 2.3% of the region’s total area.
However, with the onset of increased rainfall in the subsequent months, the vegetation cover expanded exponentially, reaching 26,256 square kilometers by December, constituting 17.1% of the Makkah region’s total area.
The lush greenery primarily flourished in the mountainous and highland regions along the Red Sea coast, encompassing areas such as Makkah city, Taif, Al Laith, Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Khulais.
This unprecedented growth in vegetation showcases a significant positive impact on the local landscape, contributing to ecological balance and potentially mitigating desertification challenges.
The success of this initiative is a testament to the Saudi National Center’s efforts in vegetation cover development and desertification combat. The surge in green cover not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the region but also reflects a broader commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation. The data underscores the vital role that weather patterns and environmental stewardship play in shaping landscapes and fostering ecological resilience.
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