Riyadh rains: Warnings of flash floods until Friday, Civil Defense issues alert
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced warning regarding the expected weather conditions, cautioning against rainfall in Riyadh , which has already begun and will continue until next Friday. This weather system affects the capital, Riyadh, as well as a large number of its surrounding governorates and districts, urging citizens and residents to take precautions to avoid the risks associated with these severe weather fluctuations.
Provinces and regions included in the Riyadh rain forecast
The expected rainfall will affect a wide area of the Riyadh region and its various governorates. According to the meteorological report, the direct effects of rain and flash floods will extend to: Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiya, Dhurma, Marat, Al-Qiddiya, Ad-Diriyah, Ar-Rayn, Al-Hariq, Al-Kharj, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Afif, Ad-Dawadmi, Al-Quway'iyah, Al-Ghat, Az-Zulfi, Al-Majma'ah, Shaqra, Thadiq, Huraymila, and Rumah. Rainfall intensity in these areas will vary from moderate to heavy, accompanied by strong surface winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and hail in some locations.
Climate context and weather changes in the central region
Historically, the central plateau of Saudi Arabia, particularly the Riyadh region, experiences seasonal weather fluctuations during the autumn and winter months. These rains are part of the typical weather patterns affecting the Arabian Peninsula, resulting from the convergence of warm Sudanese low-pressure systems with cold air masses from the north. However, the frequency and intensity of these rainfall events have increased in recent years due to global climate change, necessitating extensive municipal preparations and advanced infrastructure to manage stormwater drainage and protect residential areas and major thoroughfares in the capital.
Civil Defense guidelines and the importance of adhering to instructions for public safety
For its part, the General Directorate of Civil Defense urged everyone to exercise extreme caution during this period. The Directorate stressed the importance of staying away from valleys and flood channels, and not attempting to cross them while they are flowing under any circumstances. It also emphasized the need to strictly adhere to the instructions and guidelines announced through official media outlets and social media channels. These warnings are issued to ensure the safety of lives and information, as flash floods can trap vehicles and disrupt traffic on some vital roads. This necessitates full cooperation from the community with security and service agencies to ensure safe passage through this weather event.
