Thunderstorms are expected across parts of the Kingdom from Friday to Monday
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has announced forecasts indicating continued thunderstorms across large parts of the Kingdom. This weather pattern is expected to begin tomorrow, Friday, April 3rd, and continue until Monday, April 6th, 2026. Citizens and residents are advised to take precautions and follow official guidelines.
Thunderstorm rainfall map for regions of the Kingdom
The report issued by the National Center for Meteorology indicated that the weather changes will affect a wide geographical area. Light to moderate rain is expected in the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders regions on Friday, April 3rd. This weather pattern will then extend to the Hail and Qassim regions and continue until Sunday, April 5th.
Additionally, the Madinah, Makkah, and Eastern Province regions will be affected by rainfall on Friday and Saturday, April 3rd and 4th. The forecast increases to moderate to heavy rainfall in the Asir, Jazan, and Al-Baha regions from Friday to Monday, April 6th. There is also a high probability of rainfall in the capital, Riyadh, and its surrounding governorates on Saturday and Sunday, April 4th and 5th.
The climatic context of weather fluctuations in the Arabian Peninsula
Saudi Arabia is among the countries that experience significant weather fluctuations during the transitional periods between seasons, particularly in spring. Historically, this time of year is characterized by periods of atmospheric instability resulting from the convergence of warm, humid air masses from the Arabian Sea and the south with cold air masses from the north. This typical climatic interaction in the Arabian Peninsula is the primary cause of the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, which lead to varying intensities of rainfall. These climatic cycles are an essential part of the region's ecosystem, contributing to the replenishment of natural water resources upon which the desert environment depends.
Environmental significance and expected impacts of the rainfall situation
Rainfall during this time of year is of paramount importance and has far-reaching positive impacts at the local and regional levels. Environmentally and agriculturally, this rainfall contributes to irrigating vegetation, enhancing the growth of natural pastures upon which livestock herders depend, and increasing groundwater and dam levels, thus directly supporting water security and the agricultural sector. At the urban level, these weather conditions necessitate mobilization of relevant authorities to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent water accumulation, highlighting the importance of infrastructure preparedness for managing flash floods and stormwater drainage.
Accompanying weather phenomena and meteorological warnings
The National Center of Meteorology warned of several weather phenomena that will accompany the rainy weather system, most notably strong downdrafts that will stir up dust and sand, with speeds reaching up to 60 kilometers per hour, leading to reduced horizontal visibility. The report also included forecasts of flash floods in valleys and ravines, hail showers, and high waves along the coast. The center indicated that rainfall amounts in areas experiencing moderate rainfall could range from 5 to 9 millimeters per hour.
Safety guidelines and ongoing updates
Authorities have stressed the need for extreme caution, especially in open areas, and urged people to stay away from valleys and mountain slopes due to the potential for waterspouts or tornadoes during heavy rainfall. The National Center for Meteorology called on everyone to follow reports and early warnings on its official website and the "Anwaa" app to ensure public safety. It is worth noting that initial forecasts indicate the possibility of rain returning to some areas of the Kingdom starting next Tuesday and continuing until the end of the week.
