Today's weather in Saudi Arabia: Heavy rain and high temperatures

The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia on Friday, revealing severe weather fluctuations affecting various regions. The report included forecasts of heavy thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds, as well as a significant drop in temperatures, reaching near-freezing levels in some northern areas. Citizens and residents are advised to take precautions.

Rainfall and weather phenomena map

According to the center's data, the capital, Riyadh, along with Jeddah, Mecca, and the Eastern Province (Dammam), is experiencing heavy rainfall that may lead to flash floods in some valleys and ravines. This rainy weather coincides with active surface winds that may stir up dust and sand in open areas, reducing horizontal visibility. In contrast, Medina is experiencing relatively clear weather, while the southwestern highlands, such as Abha and Al-Baha, are affected by thunderstorms and rain.

Low temperatures and zero degrees Celsius

In a related development, weather observatories recorded a sharp drop in minimum temperatures, reaching near zero degrees Celsius in Tabuk, Tarif, and Al-Soudah, signaling an impending cold wave and necessitating the wearing of heavy winter clothing and ensuring safe heating of homes. The center also warned of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours in parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, and Al-Qassim regions, which will negatively impact traffic on highways.

The geographical and climatic context of the Kingdom

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by its wide topographical and climatic diversity, with weather phenomena varying significantly between the humid coastal regions, the arid central areas, and the cold mountain highlands. This variation in temperature and humidity levels (reaching 100% in Tarif and Qurayyat) is part of the Kingdom's typical winter climate, as the country is affected by cold air masses from the north interacting with warm, humid currents from the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, resulting in the current atmospheric instability.

The importance of following weather forecasts and safety measures

These reports are of paramount importance for regulating daily life, whether for traffic within densely populated major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, or for travelers on highways. In such conditions, authorities consistently urge people to stay away from floodplains and water accumulations, and to drive with extreme caution during rainfall or fog, to ensure the safety of lives and property.

Table of expected temperatures and weather phenomena

The following is a detailed statement of the maximum and minimum temperatures, humidity levels, and the most important weather phenomena recorded in the cities of the Kingdom: