Thunderstorms continue in Saudi Arabia, with flash flood warnings in place
Amid ongoing monitoring of weather fluctuations, the National Center for Meteorology issued its daily report warning of continued thunderstorms across several regions of Saudi Arabia. These forecasts indicate the possibility of flash floods in valleys and ravines, accompanied by hail and active surface winds that may stir up dust and sand, potentially reducing horizontal visibility in some areas.
The Kingdom's climate and seasonal weather fluctuations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by significant geographical and climatic diversity, experiencing notable weather fluctuations during seasonal transitions. Historically, the southwestern highlands, such as the regions of Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, have been among the areas most susceptible to heavy rainfall due to their mountainous terrain and the influence of monsoon winds. These natural phenomena are not new to the region; rather, they are part of the climatic cycle that contributes to the replenishment of natural water resources. However, global climate change in recent years has made these events more frequent and intense, necessitating ongoing vigilance from relevant authorities and citizens alike.
Impact of thunderstorms on public life and infrastructure
Continued thunderstorms far-reaching impacts at both the local and regional levels. On the positive side, these rains contribute to replenishing groundwater reserves, supporting the agricultural sector, and revitalizing vegetation cover, thus mitigating desertification. On the other hand, the heavy rainfall and resulting flash floods necessitate a mobilization of civil defense teams and relevant authorities to protect infrastructure and ensure the safety of lives and property. These weather conditions also affect traffic and intercity travel, highlighting the importance of adhering to official warnings and staying away from valleys and floodplains.
Map of areas covered by weather forecasts
The weather report indicated that the weather conditions will affect large parts of the Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, extending to the eastern parts of the Madinah region. Parts of the Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Province, and Northern Borders regions will also be affected. Light to moderate rain is expected in parts of the Jazan and Najran regions, with a high probability of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours, necessitating caution while driving.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Regarding the Red Sea, the report indicated that surface winds would be westerly to northerly at speeds ranging from 20 to 40 km/h in the northern and central parts. In the southern part, winds would be southwesterly to southeasterly at speeds of 10-32 km/h, potentially reaching 45 km/h towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Wave heights would range from one to two meters in the north and central regions, and from half a meter to one and a half meters in the south, resulting in a moderate to occasionally rough sea state.
Over the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and northerly to northeasterly in the southern part, with speeds of 12-38 km/h, potentially increasing to 50 km/h with the formation of thunderstorms. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach two and a half meters in the southern part, resulting in slight to moderate sea conditions, becoming rough during thunderstorms.
