Al-Jawf weather: Rain and flash floods expected in Sakaka and Al-Qurayyat on Friday
The National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued today an important alert regarding the expected weather conditions in the Al-Jawf region, warning of weather fluctuations including rainfall ranging between light and moderate, which will directly affect the city of Sakaka and the governorates of Dumat Al-Jandal, Al-Qurayyat and Tabarjal, starting from tomorrow, Friday.
Weather details in Sakaka and Dumat al-Jandal
The National Center for Meteorology's report indicated that moderate rainfall is expected in both Sakaka and Dumat al-Jandal. The weather system will not be limited to rain alone, but will also be accompanied by other weather phenomena requiring caution, including strong winds that may stir up dust and sand, causing near-zero visibility on highways and in open areas.
The center also indicated the possibility of hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and thunderstorms. This weather pattern is expected to last for 12 hours, beginning at 4:00 AM and continuing until 4:00 PM tomorrow, Friday.
Weather forecast in Al Qurayyat and Tabarjal
In a related development, the alerts also included the governorates of Al-Qurayyat and Tabuk, where the center predicted light rain. While the rainfall may be less intense than in Sakaka, it will be accompanied by strong winds that will reduce horizontal visibility, with the possibility of thunderstorms. The center specified that this weather pattern would begin as early as 2:00 AM and continue until 2:00 PM.
The importance of adhering to safety and civil defense guidelines
These warnings come as part of the authorities' commitment to the safety of citizens and residents. The General Directorate of Civil Defense typically urges caution in such circumstances, advising people to stay away from floodplains and valleys, and to avoid attempting to cross valleys while they are flowing, no matter how low the water level may appear.
Drivers on highways connecting the governorates of the Al-Jawf region are also advised to adhere to the specified speeds and leave a sufficient safety distance, given the potential risks resulting from water slippage or reduced visibility due to dust and rain.
The geographical and climatic context of the Al-Jawf region
The Al-Jawf region enjoys a strategic geographical location in the north of the Kingdom and is characterized by a diverse topography ranging from plains to valleys. Seasonal rainfall in this region is of paramount importance to the agricultural sector, as Al-Jawf is renowned for its olive and date palm cultivation, relying heavily on groundwater replenished by rainwater.
However, the desert environment can sometimes lead to the formation of flash floods that travel very quickly, making early warnings issued by the National Center for Meteorology a vital tool for protecting lives and property, and ensuring the continuation of daily life with minimal risk.
