Weather alerts: Rain, flash floods, and winds expected in Tabuk, Al-Baha, and Hail
The National Center for Meteorology issued a series of urgent weather alerts on Friday for several regions in Saudi Arabia, warning of severe weather fluctuations including varying intensities of rainfall and strong surface winds. These alerts are part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of citizens and residents in the affected areas.
Weather details in the Tabuk region
In the Tabuk region, the center issued a warning about moderate rainfall concentrated in Al-Muazzam, Tayma, and Duba. The center explained that this weather system includes not only rain but also potentially dangerous effects such as high-speed winds that could lead to near-zero horizontal visibility. The center also warned of the possibility of hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, high waves along the coast, and thunderstorms. This weather system is expected to continue, God willing, until 6:00 PM today.
Thunderstorms and strong winds in Al-Baha
In a related development, the National Center for Meteorology warned of rainfall in the Al-Baha region, accompanied by strong winds and a significant decrease in horizontal visibility, with a high probability of thunderstorms. The affected areas include Al-Baha city, Baljurashi, Al-Qura, Bani Hassan, Al-Mandaq, and surrounding areas. The center indicated that these weather fluctuations would continue until 7:00 PM, urging caution while driving on mountain roads.
Warnings of floods and strong winds in Hail
The alerts also included the Hail region, where the center warned of heavy rain accompanied by strong winds, which could lead to flash floods and thunderstorms. The report indicated that this weather pattern would directly affect open areas and highways, causing a significant decrease in horizontal visibility. The weather conditions in Hail are expected to continue until 10:00 PM.
The importance of early warning and safety procedures
These alerts are of paramount importance given the National Center for Meteorology's efforts to enhance public safety through its automated early warning system. These weather fluctuations are part of the Kingdom's typical climatic patterns during the transitional periods between seasons, when low-pressure systems become active and cause instability.
In such conditions, the General Directorate of Civil Defense typically urges everyone to exercise caution, stay away from floodplains and valleys, and avoid attempting to cross them while they are flowing. Drivers are also advised to reduce their speed and maintain a safe following distance due to slippery roads and reduced visibility, in order to protect lives and property.
