Saudi Arabia's weather in February: Heavy rain and high temperatures

The National Center for Meteorology issued its detailed climate report for February, which included important weather forecasts and warnings. The report indicates significant weather changes, including the possibility of rainfall exceeding normal levels in large areas, accompanied by a rise in surface temperatures and increased wind activity.

Expected rainfall map: Above normal

According to climate forecasts, February will see – God willing – moderate to heavy rainfall, exceeding the usual annual average. The center has identified the areas most affected by this rainfall as:

• Parts of the central area of ​​Medina.
• The Eastern Province and parts of the central Qassim region.
• East and parts of central and northern Hail region.
• The Northern Borders and Al-Jawf regions.
• Parts of the north and north of the Riyadh region and the Eastern Province.

Probabilistic forecasts indicate that the probability of this increase in rainfall rates reaches 55% in the aforementioned areas, while rainfall rates are expected to remain around their normal rates in the rest of the Kingdom's regions without significant changes.

High temperatures and wind activity

Regarding temperatures, the center explained that forecasts indicate a general rise in average surface temperatures across all regions of the Kingdom. The maximum increase is expected to reach (1.4) degrees Celsius , with the highest probability of this increase (70%) concentrated in:

• Parts of the south and southwest of the Eastern Province.
• Southeast of the Riyadh region.
• East and central Jazan region.

Regarding wind movement for February 2026 (according to the 850 hectopascal level), the data indicates an increase in speed, with the increase expected to reach (0.9 m/s) in the south and east of the Kingdom with the dominance of south to southeast winds, while the central and northern parts of the Kingdom record an increase of up to (0.6 m/s).

Climate context and the importance of forecasts

February in Saudi Arabia is typically a transitional month, marking the end of winter astronomically and the beginning of the weather fluctuations that precede spring. These anticipated rains are of paramount importance, as they contribute to replenishing groundwater reserves and revitalizing vegetation, particularly in desert and pastoral areas that rely heavily on late winter rainfall.

On the other hand, the combination of high temperatures and heavy rainfall can lead to atmospheric instability, necessitating that citizens and residents follow weather forecasts closely. Experts confirm that these climatic changes are in line with evolving global patterns, highlighting the crucial role of the National Center of Meteorology in utilizing the latest climate modeling technologies to provide accurate information that assists relevant authorities and individuals in planning and taking necessary precautions.

In conclusion, the National Center of Meteorology stressed the need to follow daily reports and early warnings, and to take into account all guidelines issued by the competent authorities, in order to ensure public safety during periods of weather fluctuations.