Saudi Arabia weather: Heavy rain and flash floods expected in most regions
The National Center for Meteorology issued an important report warning of unstable weather conditions affecting most regions of Saudi Arabia. Thunderstorms of varying intensity are expected to begin tomorrow, Friday, and continue until next Sunday. This weather system will be accompanied by several natural phenomena, including strong downdrafts that may exceed 60 km/h, causing dust storms and hail, as well as flash floods in valleys and ravines, and a significant increase in sea waves along the coast.
Details of the areas affected by the rainfall
The center's report indicated that the rainfall will be more intense, ranging from moderate to heavy, in the regions of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Al-Qassim, and Madinah. These warnings cover several governorates and centers, including: Tabuk, Neom, Tayma, Haql, Al-Wajh, Umluj, Al-Bada, Duba, Sakaka, Dumat Al-Jandal, Arar, Rafha, Al-Uwayqilah, Hail, Al-Ghazalah, Ash-Shamli, Baqaa, Buraydah, Unayzah, Ar-Rass, Al-Mudhnib, and Al-Asyah. The warnings also extend to Madinah, Yanbu, Khaybar, Badr, and Al-Mahd.
In contrast, the Riyadh, Eastern Province, and Makkah regions will experience light to moderate rainfall. The impact will include the capital, Riyadh, and several of its governorates, as well as Hafr Al-Batin, Khafji, Nairyah, Jubail, Dammam, Qatif, and Al-Ahsa in the Eastern Province. In the Makkah region, the affected areas include the Holy City, Jeddah, Rabigh, Khulais, Al-Jumum, Bahrah, and Al-Kamil.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations are part of the climatic characteristics that distinguish Saudi Arabia during the transitional periods between seasons, when low-pressure systems become active, contributing to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and thunderstorms. These warnings are of paramount importance given the Kingdom's geography, which includes numerous valleys and wadis, making low-lying areas vulnerable to rapid surface runoff during heavy rainfall. This necessitates the constant activation of emergency plans by the relevant authorities.
Safety guidelines and ongoing monitoring
The National Center of Meteorology stressed the need for caution and vigilance, urging people to stay away from areas prone to flash floods, waterlogged areas, valleys, and dams during rainfall. It also called on everyone to follow weather updates through official channels, including the center's website, its social media accounts, and the "Anwaa" smartphone application, to ensure access to accurate and timely information and protect lives and property.
