Riyadh:The Kingdom's skies recently displayed a close conjunction of the Moon and the Pleiades, an event tied to the traditional seasonal marker 'Qiran 19.' This marker, rooted in Arab folk tradition, signals the start of the Al-Wasm season and its initial phase, Wasm Al-Harif, historically used by Bedouins and farmers.

According to Saudi Press Agency, these traditional indicators have been utilized across the Arabian Peninsula to observe seasonal shifts and weather patterns. Astronomy Club member Mohammed Al-Hazimi highlighted that this conjunction with the Pleiades traditionally points to Al-Wasm's arrival and the onset of cooler weather. It is also associated with the development of rain-bearing clouds from the west and southwest.

Al-Hazimi stated that Al-Wasm season spans about 81 days, with Wasm Al-Harif lasting approximately 27 days. During this period, rain is considered beneficial for germinating spring vegetation and preparing the soil for desert truffles, known locally as faq'a.

Historically, the conjunction of the Moon and Pleiades, along with other astronomical observations, has been of interest to Arab communities. Arabs have traditionally utilized lunar mansions, rising stars, and stellar positions as indicators for agricultural activities, grazing, and weather predictions.