Weather in Saudi Arabia: Heavy thunderstorms expected in 7 regions
Weather details and rainfall forecasts in Saudi Arabia
Citizens and residents across Saudi Arabia are closely monitoring the weather, with the National Center for Meteorology forecasting continued thunderstorms of varying intensity across large parts of the Kingdom. The report indicated that the rainfall will be moderate to heavy, potentially leading to flash floods, accompanied by hail in parts of Najran, Asir, and Jazan. Meanwhile, light to moderate rain is expected in parts of Al-Baha, Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province. This coincides with the continued impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand in parts of these regions, as well as in parts of the Northern Borders and Al-Jawf regions, and the northern and central sections of the Red Sea coast.
Unstable climate: The historical context of weather phenomena
The Arabian Peninsula is characterized by significant weather fluctuations during the transitional periods between seasons. Historically, the Kingdom experiences periods of atmospheric instability at these times of year, manifested in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and heavy rainfall. The National Center of Meteorology, utilizing the latest technologies and advanced monitoring equipment, provides accurate and early warnings. This advancement in weather monitoring is part of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and protect lives and property, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a vibrant society and a safe and sustainable environment for all.
Local and regional impacts of thunderstorms
These climate changes are of great importance and have tangible impacts on several levels. Locally, heavy rainfall and flash floods contribute to replenishing groundwater and revitalizing vegetation, thus supporting the agricultural sector and environmental initiatives such as the "Saudi Green Initiative." However, these weather conditions necessitate extreme caution, as dust-laden downdrafts reduce horizontal visibility, requiring drivers to be especially vigilant on highways. The General Directorate of Civil Defense consistently emphasizes the importance of staying away from valleys and floodplains to ensure everyone's safety during these periods of unstable weather.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the report detailed the surface wind patterns over the Red Sea, which are northwesterly to northerly at speeds ranging from 25 to 47 km/h in the northern and central parts, and from 15 to 30 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights range from one to two and a half meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one and a half meters in the southern part, resulting in a moderate to rough sea state in the north and central regions, and a slight to moderate sea state in the south.
In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northwesterly to northerly at a speed of 15-30 km/h, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters, and the sea state will be light to moderate, making conditions relatively favorable for normal marine activities, with the need to follow updates.
Weather fluctuations will continue until the end of the week
The National Center for Meteorology's extended forecast indicates continued thunderstorms of varying intensity across a wide area of the Kingdom from Monday, April 6th, until Friday, April 10th, 2026. This weather pattern will be accompanied by various weather phenomena, including dust storms, hail, and flash floods in some areas. Specifically regarding the Eastern Province, the report anticipates light to moderate rainfall in the cities and governorates of Dammam, Khobar, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Abqaiq, Al-Ahsa, Nairyah, Hafr Al-Batin, and Khafji on Wednesday and Thursday.
