Saudi Arabia weather: Thunderstorms of varying intensity across most regions
Saudi Arabia is experiencing significant weather fluctuations, with the National Center for Meteorology forecasting thunderstorms of varying intensity from Monday, April 20th to Friday, April 24th. These forecasts cover a wide geographical area, encompassing most regions and provinces of the Kingdom, and are accompanied by several weather phenomena that require attention and caution.
The nature of the spring climate and weather fluctuations in Saudi Arabia
April is a crucial transitional period in the Arabian Peninsula's climate, as spring is a season of rapid weather changes. Historically, this period is known for the activity of cumulonimbus clouds, which form as a result of the convergence of warm and cold air masses, leading to heavy rainfall and flash floods. These climatic phenomena are not unusual for the region; rather, they are part of the natural cycle that contributes to the renewal of vegetation and the replenishment of groundwater in the deserts and valleys of the Kingdom.
Expected effects of thunderstorms of varying intensity
This rainfall is of great importance locally, as it directly contributes to supporting the agricultural sector and replenishing water levels in dams across various regions. However, the varying intensity of the thunderstorms necessitates heightened preparedness from relevant authorities, given their potential impact on land navigation and the possibility of road closures due to flash floods. These conditions also play a role in moderating temperatures, which will positively affect the daily lives of citizens and residents, provided they adhere to safety guidelines.
Rainfall map for the regions of the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology explained that the Madinah region will be affected by moderate to heavy rain, including Madinah, Al-Ula, Khaybar, Al-Ais, and Wadi Al-Fara, on Monday, with rain returning again on Thursday. Al-Mahd and Al-Hanakiya will also experience rain during the same period. In Hail, the region and its governorates will be affected by rain that will become heavier on Thursday and Friday. As for Al-Qassim, the weather system will affect Buraidah, Unaizah, Ar-Rass, and most other governorates, with the peak impact expected at the end of the week.
The weather system extends to the capital, Riyadh, and its surrounding governorates, including Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiya, Al-Kharj, and Afif, with rainfall expected to intensify on Thursday and Friday. In the Northern Borders region, Rafha, Al-Uwaiqilah, Arar, and Tarif will experience similar rainfall. The Eastern Province (Dammam, Jubail, Al-Ahsa, and Hafr Al-Batin) is also forecast to receive moderate to heavy rain. In Tabuk, Tayma will experience heavy rainfall, while Tabuk city and Haql will see light to moderate rain. Al-Jawf will be affected by rain that will become heavier by Friday.
In the western and southern regions, the Makkah region (Turbah, Al-Khurmah, Taif, and the Holy City) is experiencing light to heavy rainfall. Al-Baha, Asir (Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Al-Namas), Jazan, and Najran are affected by moderate to heavy rain accompanied by hail.
Weather warnings and public safety guidelines
The report warned that this weather system may be accompanied by strong downdrafts stirring up dust and sand, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. Flash floods, hail, and high waves are also expected along the coast. The National Center of Meteorology urged everyone to follow continuous updates through its official platforms and the "Anwaa" app, and to fully comply with the instructions of the Civil Defense and relevant authorities to protect lives and property.
