Autumn equinox to begin early Wednesday, marking end of summer

Today marks the final day of astronomical summer in the northern hemisphere, as the autumn equinox will occur early Wednesday at 3:05 a.m. Mecca time, when the sun appears to cross the celestial equator from north to south.

Majed Abu Zahira, head of the Jeddah Astronomical Society, explained that the start of autumn does not immediately bring cooler temperatures. The lingering effects of summer heat will persist for some time, with a gradual shift in weather over the coming weeks. A more noticeable drop in temperatures is expected closer to November, depending on the region.

He added that autumn is a transitional season between summer and winter, characterized by fluctuating weather, changing temperatures, and increased wind activity. The likelihood of atmospheric instability and rainfall also rises in several Arab countries, including parts of the Arabian Peninsula, though rainfall patterns vary by area.

Abu Zahira noted that the autumn equinox marks a shift in daylight for regions near the Arctic Circle, as darkness increases following the end of the continuous summer daylight. This creates favorable conditions for observing the aurora borealis during the long upcoming nights.