Heavy rain in Tarif and Umluj... Saudi Arabia weather details and forecasts
On Saturday, various regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia witnessed significant weather fluctuations and varying intensities of rainfall, with moderate to heavy rain falling on the governorate of Tarif and its suburbs in the Northern Borders region, in addition to the governorate of Umluj in the Tabuk region, as part of the weather conditions warned of by the National Center for Meteorology.
Details of the rainfall situation in Tarif and Umluj
In the Northern Borders region, rainfall was concentrated in the Tarf province, encompassing the city and its surrounding areas. This resulted in the flow of some wadis and a rise in water levels in low-lying areas. These rains are a welcome development for the region, which relies heavily on the rainy season to revitalize the vegetation and natural pastures for which the northern region is renowned.
In the Tabuk region, specifically in the coastal province of Umluj, heavy rainfall was recorded, affecting vital centers such as the Al-Harrah Al-Shamaliyah and Amq centers. Umluj's rainfall is unique due to its geographical location between the mountains and the Red Sea, where water often flows from the eastern highlands (Al-Harrah) towards the coast. This typically necessitates the mobilization of relevant authorities to monitor flood channels and ensure the safety of coastal roads.
Weather forecast and climate context
The National Center of Meteorology had issued early warnings about this weather system, indicating continued chances of thunderstorms accompanied by strong surface winds and reduced horizontal visibility. According to forecasts, the impact of the rainy weather system, which began on Saturday, December 6, 2025, could extend to wide areas, with the possibility of flash floods and hail in some locations.
These weather fluctuations come in the context of the winter season in the Kingdom, which is usually characterized by the passage of low-pressure systems coming from the Mediterranean Sea or the extension of the Red Sea low-pressure system, causing weather instability that directly affects the northern, northwestern and coastal regions.
The importance of adhering to safety instructions
In light of this situation, the General Directorate of Civil Defense renewed its warnings to citizens and residents, urging them to exercise caution and stay away from valleys and flood channels, especially in open areas and on highways connecting governorates. These warnings are routine but vital at times like these to ensure public safety, particularly given the changing climate that can sometimes bring sudden and heavy rainfall.
Climate data indicates that the recurrence of rainfall events at this time of year contributes to strengthening groundwater reserves and supports the natural environment, but it requires a flexible infrastructure to deal with large quantities of water, which is what the competent authorities in various regions of the Kingdom are working on.
