Red alert in Mecca: Heavy rains, floods, and urgent warnings
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued Makkah , cautioning of severe weather fluctuations that may continue until Thursday evening. This warning comes as part of the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions affecting the Kingdom during this period.
Weather details in Mecca
The center explained in its report that the expected rainfall includes heavy downpours accompanied by high-speed winds, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility. The report also indicated a high probability of hail and flash floods in valleys and ravines. The areas affected by this warning include Taif, Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, and Turabah , with the effects continuing until 9:00 PM.
In a related context, the governorate of “Rania” is witnessing light rainfall, accompanied by surface wind activity and reduced visibility, with the possibility of thunderstorms, which calls for caution and vigilance on the part of road users and residents of those areas.
Climatic context and topographical influence
This weather pattern is particularly significant given the geographical nature of the Makkah region, where the Sarawat Mountains contribute to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, increasing the likelihood of heavy rainfall that could quickly turn into flash floods. These fluctuations are part of the climatic characteristics of the transitional seasons in the Kingdom, which often witness periods of atmospheric instability that directly impact daily life and traffic.
Weather forecast for the rest of the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology's report wasn't limited to Mecca; the forecast extended to include continued moderate to heavy thunderstorms across parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha , reaching as far south as the Madinah region. These storms will be accompanied by hail and strong, dust-raising winds.
On another note, the meteorological department warned of active surface winds stirring up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility in the eastern parts of the southwestern highlands. This will extend to parts of Najran, Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, and Al-Jawf , as well as the western parts of the Northern Borders region. Light, scattered rain is also possible in parts of central Saudi Arabia.
Public safety recommendations
Due to the issuance of a "red alert," experts and relevant authorities advise staying away from floodplains and valleys, and avoiding low-lying areas and water accumulations. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution while driving in conditions of poor visibility and hail, and to stay updated on official weather forecasts to ensure public safety.
