Riyadh: As October 16 approaches, the Qassim Region anticipates the start of the Al-Wasm season, a significant time when residents recall how the movement of stars, weather changes, and plant growth have historically guided them in understanding land conditions and determining optimal times for planting and grazing.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Al-Wasm is more than just a time of year in the popular memory of Qassim. It serves as a seasonal marker eagerly awaited by residents due to its association with milder weather, lower temperatures, and the land's readiness to receive rainfall, along with the emergence of wild plants.
Traditionally, elders in the region observed stars, winds, and land features, connecting their observations with past experiences to develop knowledge passed down through generations. Abdullah Al-Matroodi, a local elder with an interest in the seasonal effects of stars on weather and agriculture, noted that this seasonal terminology is particularly remembered by the elderly, who hold extensive knowledge of star names, their rising positions, and timings.
As Al-Wasm arrives, signs of transition from summer heat to more moderate weather are evident, with Qassim's nights gradually becoming cooler.
