Rain in Medina: Warnings of flash floods and strong winds until Tuesday

The National Center for Meteorology issued today advanced alerts and urgent warnings regarding the exposure of the Madinah region to a rainy weather condition ranging between moderate and heavy, amid a mobilization of the concerned authorities to follow the developments of the weather condition and its expected effects on the region.

Weather details and affected areas

According to the center's report, the rainy weather includes the region's holy city of Medina, as well as several of its governorates and districts: Badr, Wadi Al-Fara', Al-Hanakiya, Al-Mahd, Al-Rais, and Yanbu. The center explained that this weather pattern will not be limited to rainfall alone, but is also expected to be accompanied by several other weather phenomena, including:

• High-speed winds may stir up dust and sand.
• A complete lack of or a severe decrease in horizontal visibility.
• Hailstones fell.
• Torrential rains flow in valleys and ravines.
• Active thunderstorms.

The National Center of Meteorology has specified the time frame for this situation, indicating that it will begin at 10:00 PM this evening and continue until 11:00 AM tomorrow, Tuesday, which calls for taking the utmost precautions.

Geographical context and the importance of warnings

These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Madinah region, which is characterized by numerous large valleys and ravines that receive rainwater from the surrounding highlands. Historically, the region experiences heavy rainfall at this time of year, often leading to flash floods in well-known valleys such as Wadi al-Aqiq and Wadi Qanat. This topographical nature makes early warnings a vital tool for protecting lives and property, as flash floods can quickly reach low-lying areas and highways.

Safety procedures and recommendations from relevant authorities

In light of these forecasts, the General Directorate of Civil Defense and relevant authorities have urged citizens and residents to adhere to public safety guidelines. This includes staying away from floodplains and wadis, not attempting to cross wadis while they are flowing regardless of the water level, and avoiding low-lying areas and water accumulations. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution while driving in conditions of reduced visibility and rainfall, and to stay away from moving and unstable objects during strong winds.

Rainfall extends to Tabuk

In related news, light to moderate rain fell today in the Umluj Governorate of the Tabuk region. The rain included the towns of Al-Hassi, Al-Shadkh, Shathath, Haradh, and Al-Hajmiyah. This rainfall is part of the Wasim and winter season, which is a welcome blessing for the Kingdom. May God make it a beneficial and blessed rain, and may its benefits extend throughout the land.