Weather in Saudi Arabia: Thunderstorms and flash floods in 9 regions
The National Center for Meteorology, in its daily report, revealed details of weather conditions for Friday across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, indicating the continuation of unstable weather affecting large areas of the country. The report included forecasts of moderate to heavy thunderstorms, which may lead to flash floods in valleys and ravines, accompanied by hail and strong winds that will stir up dust and sand. This weather pattern is particularly concentrated in parts of the Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Riyadh regions.
The report also indicated the possibility of light to moderate rainfall in parts of the Madinah, Qassim, and Hail regions, as well as parts of the Najran region, which calls for caution while driving and traveling.
The climatic and geographical context of the Kingdom
These weather fluctuations are a consequence of the diverse geography of Saudi Arabia, where topography plays a significant role in shaping weather patterns . The southwestern regions, such as Asir and Al-Baha, are characterized by their mountainous terrain, which contributes to cloud formation and seasonal rainfall, while the central and eastern regions are affected by different atmospheric pressure systems that can bring dust-raising winds. The National Center of Meteorology is the official body responsible for monitoring these phenomena, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies, including radar and satellites, to ensure accurate forecasts and protect lives and property.
Weather conditions in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf
Regarding the sea conditions, the center explained that surface winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 20-40 km/h in the northern and central parts, shifting to southwesterly and southeasterly at speeds reaching 50 km/h in the southern part, accompanied by thunderstorms. Wave heights will range from one to two and a half meters, resulting in rough sea conditions in the south.
In the Arabian Gulf, the winds will be northwesterly to northerly at a speed of up to 45 km/h, with wave heights reaching two and a half meters in the southern part, indicating a turbulent sea state and the formation of rain-bearing thunderclouds.
Special alerts and safety measures for the Eastern Province
In a related development, the center issued a special alert for the Eastern Province regarding strong surface winds and reduced horizontal visibility. This alert covers the governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq. The alert is in effect from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with wind speeds potentially reaching 49 km/h.
These weather direct effects on daily life and traffic, requiring citizens and residents to follow weather forecasts regularly and adhere to civil defense instructions, especially regarding staying away from flood channels and valleys during rainfall, and being cautious of reduced visibility due to dust in open areas and highways.
