Medina weather: Rain, thunderstorms, and urgent warnings
The National Center for Meteorology issued an important weather alert today, Friday, for the Madinah , indicating expectations of light rain that may develop into other weather phenomena. This alert comes as part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions across various regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Weather details and affected areas
The center explained in its report that the weather conditions are not limited to Medina alone, but extend to several of its surrounding governorates, namely: Al-Hanakiya, Al-Mahd, Badr, Wadi Al-Fara, Al-Ais, and Khaybar . Rainfall is expected to be accompanied by a noticeable increase in surface wind activity, leading to dust storms and consequently reduced horizontal visibility on highways and in open areas, in addition to the possibility of scattered thunderstorms
The National Center of Meteorology has set the time frame for this situation, as it actually started at eleven o'clock this morning, Friday, and is expected to continue until seven o'clock in the evening, which calls for taking precautions during this time period.
The geographical and climatic context of Medina
These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Madinah region, which is characterized by its diverse terrain, encompassing mountains, valleys, and plains. In such weather conditions, even light rainfall often leads to flash floods in ravines and valleys, especially in the sloping and elevated areas surrounding governorates like Al-Ais and Khaybar. This time of year is a transitional period that can witness rapid and sudden weather changes, a well-known climatic pattern in the western and northwestern regions of the Kingdom.
The importance of adhering to safety instructions
Given the potential risks associated with this weather, such as vehicles skidding due to rain or reduced visibility caused by dust and strong winds, authorities have emphasized the importance of following public safety guidelines. Drivers on highways connecting Medina and its surrounding governorates are advised to exercise extreme caution, maintain safe distances, and avoid speeding.
The relevant authorities, including the Civil Defense, called on citizens and residents to stay away from flood channels and valley bottoms, and not to risk crossing them no matter how low the water level is, and to avoid open areas during thunderstorms, in order to protect lives and property.
