Red alert in Asir: Heavy rain and flash floods expected until evening
The National Center for Meteorology issued a red alert on Tuesday, warning of unstable weather conditions affecting large parts of the Asir region, including heavy rainfall and flash floods. The alert covered specific governorates and districts, most notably Al-Majardah and Bariq, with authorities urging citizens and residents to exercise extreme caution.
According to the center's report, the expected weather conditions will not be limited to heavy rainfall, but will also be accompanied by a number of severe weather phenomena, including high-speed winds that may stir up dust and sand, causing near-zero visibility on highways and in open areas. The forecast also indicates the possibility of heavy hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and strong thunderstorms. This weather pattern is expected to continue, God willing, until 8:00 PM this evening.
The geographical nature of Asir and its impact on the weather
These weather fluctuations are a consequence of the unique geographical and climatic characteristics of the Asir region, situated within the Sarawat Mountains. The region is known for its rugged terrain and towering peaks, which play a pivotal role in attracting cumulonimbus clouds, particularly during periods of seasonal variation. Asir is among the regions in the Kingdom that receive the most annual rainfall, making its valleys susceptible to flash floods that travel rapidly. This necessitates the constant activation of early warning systems to protect lives and property.
Red alert indicators and safety procedures
The “red alert” is the highest level of warning in the National Center of Meteorology’s automated early warning system, indicating that expected weather phenomena are severe and require immediate action. This type of alert typically coincides with the activation of emergency plans by civil defense and service agencies to ensure a rapid response to any flooding or incidents that may result from the adverse weather conditions.
In these conditions, everyone is advised to stay away from floodplains and valleys, and avoid low-lying areas where water may suddenly accumulate. Experts also urge drivers to reduce their speed and maintain a safe following distance due to reduced visibility and the risk of vehicles skidding, and to adhere to the Civil Defense instructions broadcast through official channels to ensure everyone's safety until the rain subsides.
