Riyadh and Diriyah rains: Warning of flash floods and strong winds early Thursday morning
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important alert for residents of Riyadh and Diriyah, warning of unstable weather conditions whose direct effects will begin in the early hours of Thursday morning. These warnings are part of the center's ongoing and intensive monitoring of weather conditions across the Kingdom, ensuring the safety of citizens and residents.
Details of the rainfall situation and its timing
According to the early warning statement, the rainy weather is expected to begin at 5:00 AM on Thursday, with its peak and effects continuing until 3:00 PM that same day. The center has classified the situation as involving heavy rainfall, urging caution and advising against going out unless absolutely necessary during periods of heavy downpours.
Accompanying weather phenomena
The expected weather conditions are not limited to rainfall alone; the National Center of Meteorology explained that this rain will be accompanied by a number of severe weather phenomena, including:
- High-speed winds may stir up dust and sand before the rain falls.
- A complete lack of or a severe decrease in horizontal visibility, posing a danger to highway users.
- Hailstones fell with varying intensity.
- Flash floods in valleys and ravines, in addition to the occurrence of strong thunderstorms.
Climate context of the central region
The Riyadh region and the Diriyah governorate have a unique geographical character, characterized by numerous valleys and ravines, such as Wadi Hanifa, which are highly susceptible to heavy rainfall. These rains are part of the rainy season in the central regions of the Kingdom, a season sometimes marked by intensity and rapid fluctuations. While these rains play a vital role in replenishing groundwater, they necessitate adequate infrastructure and community preparedness to manage the risks of flash floods.
The importance of adhering to safety instructions
Given these forecasts, the importance of adhering to warnings issued by relevant authorities, especially the Civil Defense, is paramount. The Civil Defense consistently emphasizes the need to stay away from valleys and flood channels, and to avoid attempting to cross them, regardless of how low the water level may seem. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution while driving, maintain safe distances, and avoid light poles and other objects that could be blown away by strong winds, to ensure everyone's safety until the weather event subsides.
