Red alert: Heavy rain in Riyadh and the Eastern Province; important warnings issued
Saudi Arabia is experiencing severe weather instability today, Thursday, as the National Center for Meteorology advanced warnings of the highest degree (red alert) for the Riyadh and Eastern regions, warning of heavy rainfall that may lead to flash floods and hail, which calls for caution and vigilance by citizens and residents.
Details of the rainfall situation in the Riyadh region
According to the center's report, the weather alert for the Riyadh region will be in effect from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The alert covers the capital city of Riyadh , as well as the governorates of: Diriyah, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Al-Hariq, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Majma'ah, and Shaqra.
Forecasts indicate that these areas will experience severe weather phenomena, including high-speed winds leading to a lack of horizontal visibility, hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and thunderstorms.
Rain extends to the eastern region
In a related development, the meteorological department issued a warning for a similar weather event affecting the Eastern Province, with a red alert in effect from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The alert covers the cities and governorates of Dammam, Khobar, Jubail, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Abqaiq, Khafji, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, and Hafr Al-Batin.
The accompanying effects in the Eastern Province are similar to those expected in Riyadh, where high waves are expected on coastal areas, flash floods, and surface wind activity that stirs up dust and sand before rainfall.
The context of the weather situation and the importance of early warning
These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's rainy season, which is often characterized by periods of atmospheric instability resulting from the convergence of air masses with different characteristics. The "red alert" is the highest level in the automated early warning system of the National Center for Meteorology, indicating a severe weather phenomenon that requires immediate action and urging people to stay away from dangerous areas.
These warnings play a pivotal role in protecting lives and property, as they contribute to raising the readiness of service and security agencies to deal with potential water accumulations and regulate traffic in the absence of visibility.
Civil Defense Public Safety Guidelines
In response to weather reports, the General Directorate of Civil Defense urged everyone to adhere to safety instructions during rainfall. Civil Defense emphasized the importance of the following through its official platforms:
- Stay completely away from water pools, valley bottoms, and flood channels.
- Do not risk crossing valleys, no matter how low the water level is.
- Stay away from dams and places where stagnant water collects.
- Exercise caution when driving on highways and open roads due to reduced visibility and the risk of skidding.
The Civil Defense called on everyone to follow the latest weather updates through the official website of the National Center for Meteorology and the verified Civil Defense accounts to ensure they receive accurate information and avoid rumors.
