Tabuk rains: heavy rainfall and warnings of flash floods
The Tabuk region experienced unstable weather conditions today, with rainfall ranging from light to moderate and heavy, affecting large parts of the region and its governorates. Lighter rain was concentrated in the southern parts of Tabuk, while other areas recorded heavier rainfall, promising a good rainy season. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and residents are documenting these distinctive winter conditions with photographs.
In the field details of the weather situation, the Al-Asafiyah center witnessed moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by heavy hail, a pattern also observed in the Abayt center of the Tayma governorate. The rainfall was not limited to inland areas but extended to coastal governorates, with light to moderate rain falling on centers within the Al-Wajh governorate, specifically in the Al-Manjur, Al-Naba', Al-Sadid, and Al-Fara'ah centers, leading to the flow of some wadis and a noticeable improvement in the weather.
The climatic and geographical context of the Tabuk region
These rainfalls are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Tabuk region, located in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia. The region is typically affected by low-pressure systems originating from the Mediterranean Sea and northern regions, making it a gateway for winter rainfall in the Kingdom. This rain is a vital source of groundwater for the region, which is known for its intensive agricultural activity, and contributes to irrigating the natural vegetation in the valleys and mountains that characterize Tabuk's diverse topography.
National Center for Meteorology and Weather Forecasts Report
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather forecast, warning of continued weather fluctuations. The center indicated expectations of moderate to heavy thunderstorms, which could lead to flash floods and be accompanied by hail and strong winds that may stir up dust and sand. These forecasts are not limited to Tabuk but also extend to parts of the Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders regions.
Expected effects and safety measures
The meteorological department also noted the extension of the rainy weather system to include the northern parts of the Eastern Province, with light rain expected in the highlands of the western and southwestern regions. This weather system necessitates caution from citizens and residents, especially those traveling on highways and in open areas, and advises staying away from wadis and floodplains during rainfall, due to the possibility of flash floods in some low-lying areas.
