Weather forecast: Heavy thunderstorms and flash floods in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology, in its detailed weather , revealed that thunderstorms ranging from moderate to heavy are expected to continue, potentially leading to flash floods in several regions of the Kingdom. These conditions will be accompanied by hail and strong winds that will stir up dust and sand, directly impacting horizontal visibility in parts of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Najran, Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. The report also indicated the possibility of this weather system extending to the southern parts of the Madinah region, with a high probability of dense fog forming during the night and early morning hours in parts of these areas.
Climate context and weather fluctuations in the Kingdom
These forecasts are within the normal context of weather fluctuations experienced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during seasonal transitions. Historically, the Arabian Peninsula is known for its exposure to atmospheric instability at this time of year, as moist air masses from the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea intersect with cold air currents in the upper atmosphere. This climatic interaction results in the formation of powerful cumulonimbus clouds and thunderstorms. The National Center of Meteorology continuously monitors these changes with high precision, utilizing the latest radar and satellite technologies to provide early warnings that contribute to protecting lives and property.
The effects of rainy weather on public life and the economy
These weather changes have tangible impacts at both the local and regional levels. On the one hand, the heavy rainfall contributes to replenishing the Kingdom's groundwater reserves and revitalizes the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on rainwater in some southern and western regions. On the other hand, these conditions necessitate the mobilization of relevant authorities, such as Civil Defense and traffic departments, to manage water accumulation and flash floods in valleys and ravines. Adherence to official instructions is crucial to avoid the risks associated with reduced horizontal visibility and strong downdrafts, which could affect land and air traffic.
Weather developments: Red alert hits 5 regions
In an escalation of its alert level, the National Center of Meteorology issued a "red alert" warning of torrential rains across parts of five major regions on Monday. This severe weather event is expected to begin at noon and continue until 9 pm. The effects of this alert include extremely high winds, near-zero visibility, heavy hail, flash floods, and frequent thunderstorms, requiring the utmost caution.
Map of areas covered by rainfall
Rainfall distribution is spread across several cities and governorates. In the Riyadh region, it includes Al-Aflaj, As-Sulayyil, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Ar-Rayn, and Al-Quway'iyah. In Makkah, it is concentrated in Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, Turabah, Ranyah, and Al-Ardiyat. In Al-Baha, it includes Al-Hajrah, Al-Makhwah, Far'ah Ghamid Az-Zanad, Qalwah, Al-Baha, Al-Aqiq, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan. In Jazan, it extends to Al-Harth, Ad-Dayer, Ar-Rayth, Al-Aridhah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, and Harub. The Asir region receives the largest share, including Al-Amwah, Al-Arin, Bishah, Tathlith, Tarib, Al-Majardah, Bariq, Rijal Alma', Muhayil, An-Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, Abha, Ahad Rafidah, Khamis Mushait, Al-Harjah, Ar-Rabu'ah, Al-Farshah, Sarat Abidah, and Dhahran Al-Janoub.
Maritime navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, the report indicated that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 15-35 km/h in the northern and central parts, while they will be northwesterly to southwesterly at speeds of 12-23 km/h, reaching up to 60 km/h with thunderstorms in the southern part. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters, potentially exceeding two and a half meters in the south. Sea conditions will be slight to moderate, becoming rough in the south. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northeasterly to easterly in the northern part and southwesterly to northwesterly in the central and southern parts at speeds of 12-24 km/h, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to one meter and sea conditions being slight.
