Urgent warnings of thunderstorms in parts of Saudi Arabia
The General Directorate of Civil Defense in Saudi Arabia issued urgent warnings to citizens and residents, urging them to exercise extreme caution as thunderstorms across large parts of the Kingdom. Authorities stressed the importance of staying in safe locations and avoiding areas prone to flash flooding, including waterlogged areas and valleys, and strongly warned against swimming in them due to the extreme danger they pose. They also called for strict adherence to instructions and guidelines disseminated through various media outlets and official social media platforms to ensure everyone's safety until next Saturday.
Map of areas affected by thunderstorms
Civil Defense reports indicate that the Makkah region will be among those affected by moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially leading to flash floods and hail, accompanied by strong downdrafts that will stir up dust and sand. This forecast includes Jeddah, Khulais, Bahrah, Rabigh, Makkah, Al-Kamil, Al-Jumum, Al-Lith, Al-Qunfudhah, Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Turabah, Al-Muwayh, Al-Khurmah, and Ranyah. Similarly, the Riyadh region will not be spared from this weather system, with similar rainfall expected in the capital city of Riyadh and the governorates of Wadi Al-Dawasir, As-Sulayyil, Al-Aflaj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, Dhurma, Marat, Shaqra, Al-Ghat, Az-Zulfi, Al-Majma'ah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Ad-Diriyah, Rumah, Afif, Ad-Dawadimi, Al-Quway'iyah, Ar-Rayn, Hawtat Bani Tamim, and Al-Kharj, potentially causing flash floods.
The warnings were not limited to Mecca and Riyadh, but extended to include the regions of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Hail, the Northern Borders, Medina, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, Najran, Al-Qassim, and the Eastern Province. All these areas are expected to receive varying intensities of rainfall, necessitating heightened preparedness from all relevant authorities and citizens alike.
Climate context: Increased rainfall in the Arabian Peninsula
These warnings come amidst significant climate changes affecting the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula in general. Historically, Saudi Arabia has been known for its arid desert climate, but recent years have seen a marked increase in rainfall and a greater frequency of extreme weather events. Meteorologists attribute this shift to global climate changes, which are pushing humid air masses toward the region, particularly during seasonal transitions. These changes have made weather forecasts and proactive warnings issued by the National Center for Meteorology and Civil Defense essential for protecting lives and property.
The importance and expected impact of current weather fluctuations
Heavy rainfall has dual impacts at both the local and regional levels. On the one hand, it poses significant challenges to infrastructure in some cities, requiring municipal and local authorities to mobilize their teams to ensure smooth traffic flow and drainage of rainwater to prevent flooding or disruption of public services. On the other hand, this weather event holds major strategic importance by replenishing groundwater reservoirs and increasing water levels in dams, which positively impacts the agricultural sector and vegetation cover in the Kingdom, in line with the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative.
Vital guidelines for dealing with flash floods
In conclusion, the General Directorate of Civil Defense reiterates that public awareness is the first line of defense. It is advised to avoid leaving homes during severe thunderstorms except in cases of extreme necessity, and to avoid parking vehicles in valleys or near trees and billboards that could be toppled by downdrafts. Adherence to these guidelines will ensure that this weather event passes safely and prevent any loss of life or property.
