Saudi Arabia weather: Thunderstorms and flash flood warnings until Thursday
The National Center for Meteorology issued a recent report detailing the expected weather conditions in Saudi Arabia, indicating continued weather fluctuations and of thunderstorms across most regions of the Kingdom until next Thursday. These forecasts are based on the Center's ongoing monitoring of climatic changes and cloud movement using satellites and advanced radar.
Details of the rainfall situation and affected areas
The report indicated that the weather system would cover a wide geographical area, reflecting the widespread rainfall across most regions of the Kingdom. The following areas are expected to be affected:
- Makkah Region (including the Holy Capital, Jeddah, and Taif).
- Riyadh region and its governorates.
- Eastern Province.
- The regions of Asir, Al-Baha, and Jazan in the south.
- The regions of Medina, Tabuk, Hail, and Qassim.
- The northern regions include Al-Jawf and the northern borders.
This geographical variation in rainfall indicates a state of atmospheric instability affecting mountainous, coastal and inland areas alike.
Accompanying weather phenomena: downdrafts and high waves
Saudi Arabia's weather forecast wasn't limited to rain; the center also warned of accompanying weather phenomena that could exacerbate the situation. Forecasts indicate strong downdrafts that could stir up dust and sand, with speeds exceeding 60 km/h, potentially reducing horizontal visibility on highways and in open areas.
Regarding coastal areas, the center warned of the possibility of high waves in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, where the wave height may exceed two and a half meters, which calls for caution for sea-goers and fishermen.
The importance of warnings and safety procedures
These warnings are of paramount importance given the Kingdom's topography, where heavy rainfall often leads to flash floods in valleys, ravines, and low-lying areas. In this context, the National Center for Meteorology stressed the necessity of:
- Take full precautions while driving or commuting.
- Stay away immediately from places where water collects, flood channels, and valley bottoms, as they pose a real danger to lives and property.
- Follow weather bulletins and real-time reports issued by the center’s official channels and smart applications.
The relevant authorities in the Kingdom, including the Civil Defense, are working in continuous coordination with the Meteorology Department to raise preparedness and take the necessary measures to deal with these rainy conditions, in order to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.
