Medina weather: Heavy rain and storms expected on Sunday
The National Center for Meteorology issued an urgent and important alert for residents and visitors of the Madinah region, warning of a severe weather instability whose direct effects will begin next Sunday. These warnings come as part of ongoing monitoring of numerical weather models indicating the influx of humid air currents that will lead to sharp weather fluctuations.
Weather details and affected areas
The center explained in its report that the rainfall will be intense and heavy, with torrential thunderstorms expected, leading to flash floods in valleys and ravines. The report identified the areas most vulnerable to this weather system from Sunday to Tuesday as the governorates of Al-Ula, Yanbu, Badr, and Al-Ais . Meanwhile, Madinah, Khaybar, Al-Hanakiya, Al-Mahd, and Wadi Al-Fara' will experience varying intensities of rainfall during the same period.
Severe weather phenomena: tornadoes and downdrafts
What distinguishes this weather pattern is its association with severe weather phenomena that necessitate extreme caution. The National Center for Meteorology has warned of the possibility of tornadoes and waterspouts (especially in coastal areas such as Yanbu), in addition to heavy hail. Surface winds will also be active, stirring up dust and sand, accompanied by strong downdrafts that may exceed 60 kilometers per hour, potentially leading to reduced horizontal visibility and the dislodging of unsecured objects.
The climatic and geographical context of the region
These weather fluctuations are part of the typical climatic patterns that characterize the western and northwestern regions of the Kingdom during the transitional seasons and winter. The Madinah region is usually affected by low-pressure systems originating from the Red Sea, which interact with cold upper atmospheric layers, creating a state of high instability. These warnings are particularly important given the region's geography, which includes numerous large valleys and low-lying areas prone to the formation of rapidly traveling flash floods.
The importance of warnings and safety procedures
Given the status of Medina as a religious and tourist destination attracting visitors and pilgrims from around the world, in addition to the significant tourism potential of Al-Ula Governorate, these warnings are of paramount importance to ensure the safety of lives and property. The relevant authorities, including the Civil Defense, urge citizens and residents to adhere to the instructions, stay away from floodplains and valleys, avoid low-lying areas during this weather event, and follow weather updates through official channels to ensure public safety.
