"Al-Ahmar's Strike" – The Arabian Gulf's 40-Day Dangerous Season Begins

  • 09/11/2025

The treacherous maritime season known as "Al-Ahmar's Strike" begins Tuesday, marking a 40-day period historically feared by Arabian Gulf sailors for its sudden storms and dangerous sea conditions. According to astronomical experts, this seasonal phenomenon lasts until the winter solstice on December 20th and is characterized by atmospheric instability, active winds reaching up to 120 km/h, cloud formation, and rain.

This transitional period between autumn and winter was traditionally avoided by ship captains ("Nawakhda") who would refrain from sea travel due to the high waves and stormy conditions that could sink vessels. The season's name comes from the red star Antares (the heart of Scorpio), and the saying "Al-Ahmar struck his blow" became synonymous with powerful winds.

The period is known by three names - "Red Flutter," "Sunset of Al-Ahmar," and "Al-Ahmar's Absence" - and brings four main phenomena: sudden weather storms, severe wave disturbances, strong winds, and the spread of seasonal diseases like influenza and colds due to the temperature drop. While modern shipping has advanced safety measures, the seasonal pattern continues to affect the region's climate annually.

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