Sunday's weather forecast in Saudi Arabia: Rain and floods expected in 11 regions
The National Center for Meteorology announced details of Sunday's weather forecast for Saudi Arabia, warning of significant weather fluctuations including heavy thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail across large parts of the country. These warnings come as part of the authorities' commitment to the safety of citizens and residents, with 11 administrative regions preparing for this exceptional weather event, which requires the utmost caution.
Climate context: Historical weather changes in the Kingdom
The Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi Arabia in particular, is characterized by a desert climate with scarce rainfall for most of the year. However, transitional periods between seasons, such as spring and autumn, have historically been marked by periods of atmospheric instability. These cyclical weather patterns lead to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds, which can cause sudden and heavy rainfall. In recent years, there has been an increase in the frequency of these extreme rainfall events, which meteorologists attribute to global climate change affecting regional weather patterns. This has made heavy rainfall and flash floods in valleys and low-lying areas a recurring phenomenon, requiring early preparation and infrastructure capable of handling such large volumes of water.
Impact of Sunday's weather forecast on vital sectors and society
will have Sunday's weather forecast a direct impact on several local and regional levels. Locally, these rains will contribute to replenishing groundwater reserves and supporting the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on rainfall in some areas, as well as revitalizing vegetation and natural pastures. Conversely, these weather changes pose significant challenges to transportation and traffic, as flash floods and dust storms will reduce horizontal visibility, necessitating the mobilization of civil defense and security teams to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and protect lives and property. Regionally, this weather pattern reflects the interconnectedness of climatic systems in the Middle East, as neighboring countries are affected by the extension of these low-pressure systems.
Map of areas affected by rain and floods
According to the official statement issued by the National Center for Meteorology, the chance of thunderstorms ranging from moderate to heavy remains. These storms may cause flash flooding and will be accompanied by hail and strong winds that will stir up dust and sand. This weather system will affect large parts of 11 regions: the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, and Najran. The effects will also extend to parts of Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders regions. The meteorological report did not rule out the possibility of dense fog forming over parts of the highlands and these regions, making it crucial to exercise caution while driving.
Navigation conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
The report detailed the sea conditions relevant to fishermen and coastal visitors, and the forecasts were as follows:
Red Sea
- Surface winds: South to southeast winds will blow at a speed of 10 to 35 km/h, turning north or northeast during the afternoon over the northern part, and may reach speeds of up to 50 km/h with the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds over the southern part and towards the Gulf of Aqaba.
- Wave height: It ranges from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may reach more than two meters in the event of thunderstorms and rain, especially over the southern part and the Gulf of Aqaba.
- Sea conditions: The waves will be light to moderate, becoming rough with thunderstorms.
Arabian Gulf
- Surface winds: Easterly to southeasterly winds at a speed of 12-35 km/h, reaching more than 50 km/h with rain-bearing thunderstorms.
- Wave height: from half a meter to one and a half meters, and it reaches more than two meters with rainy thunderstorms.
- Sea state: Light to moderate waves, turning rough with the formation of thunderclouds.
