Thunderstorms hit Saudi Arabia: Civil Defense issues safety warnings
The General Directorate of Civil Defense in Saudi Arabia has urged all citizens and residents to exercise extreme caution, as thunderstorms are expected to continue across most of the Kingdom until next Sunday. Authorities stressed the importance of staying in safe locations and avoiding areas prone to flash floods and valleys, strongly warning against swimming in them due to the extreme danger they pose. They also emphasized the need to adhere to instructions and guidelines disseminated through various media outlets and official social media platforms.
Weather details and thunderstorm forecast
Based on accurate reports and data issued by the National Center for Meteorology, the Makkah region is expected to be affected by moderate to heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash floods and hail, accompanied by active downdrafts that will stir up dust and sand. This weather pattern includes the Holy City of Makkah, Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Turabah, Al-Muwayh, Al-Khurmah, and Ranyah. Similarly, the Riyadh region will experience similar weather fluctuations, with rainfall that may cause flash flooding in Wadi Ad-Dawasir, As-Sulayyil, Riyadh, Al-Kharj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, Al-Quway'iyah, Ad-Diriyah, Ar-Rin, Ar-Hariq, Rumah, Al-Aflaj, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Afif, Ad-Dawadimi, Al-Ghat, Az-Zulfi, Al-Majma'ah, Shaqra, Thadiq, Huraymila, Dhurma, and Marat. The forecast is not limited to these two regions but extends to include Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Madinah, Al-Qassim, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, and the Eastern Province.
Climate change and the history of weather events in the Kingdom
Given its geographical and climatic context, the Arabian Peninsula is known for its arid desert environment. However, Saudi Arabia has a long history of experiencing heavy rainfall events, typically occurring during the transitional periods between seasons, known locally as the "Wasam" and "Marawih" seasons. Historically, the Kingdom has witnessed numerous exceptional weather events that have led to flash floods and the overflowing of dry valleys for decades. With the increasing global impact of climate change, these weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. This underscores the crucial role of the National Center of Meteorology in accurately monitoring these shifts and issuing early warnings that enable government agencies, such as the Civil Defense, to proactively prepare and mitigate potential risks to infrastructure and the community.
Local and economic impacts of weather fluctuations
These weather fluctuations have a dual and contrasting impact at the local and regional levels. On the positive side, these rains contribute to replenishing groundwater and raising water levels in strategic dams distributed across various regions, thus supporting the agricultural sector and enhancing vegetation cover in line with the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative. On the other hand, the heavy rainfall and flash floods may lead to immediate impacts on daily life, such as disrupting traffic on some highways or suspending in-person classes in schools and universities as a precautionary measure to ensure student safety. Regionally, this situation reflects an extension of low-pressure systems affecting the Arabian Gulf region as a whole, necessitating ongoing coordination and the exchange of meteorological information among neighboring countries to address any potential repercussions.
Vital guidelines to ensure public safety
Under these circumstances, public awareness remains the first line of defense. It is always advisable to avoid leaving home during severe thunderstorms unless absolutely necessary. Drivers must exercise extreme caution, maintain a safe distance, and avoid crossing valleys and ravines, no matter how low the water level may seem, as the force of the current can easily sweep away vehicles. Adhering to Civil Defense directives is not merely a routine procedure, but a national and personal responsibility that contributes to saving lives and property and ensuring a safe passage through this weather event.
