Rain is expected to continue across the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has announced its forecast of continued thunderstorms across most regions of the Kingdom until next Sunday. The center explained in its report that the rainfall will range from light to moderate, with the possibility of heavy downpours in some areas, accompanied by strong winds and hail, increasing the likelihood of flash floods in valleys and ravines.
The list of affected areas includes a wide geographical range encompassing the Riyadh region, the Eastern Province, and Makkah, in addition to southern regions such as Asir, Jazan, Najran, and Al-Baha. The weather system also extends to parts of the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, Hail, and Northern Borders regions, reflecting the comprehensive nature and wide impact of the weather event.
Climatic context: Spring rainy season (“Sarayat”)
This rainy spell is part of a typical spring season in the Arabian Peninsula, known locally as the "Sarayat" or "Marawih" period. This period is characterized by rapid weather changes resulting from the convergence of different air masses: warm, humid air from the south meeting the cold air masses remaining from winter. This convergence creates atmospheric instability, leading to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall that is often heavy and localized to specific geographical areas, which explains the nature of the current rainfall.
Importance and expected effects: a blessing and a curse
These rains are of major strategic importance to the Kingdom, which is one of the world's driest countries. They contribute to replenishing groundwater reserves, filling dams, and revitalizing vegetation and natural pastures, directly supporting ambitious environmental initiatives such as the "Saudi Green Initiative.".
On the other hand, heavy rains bring with them challenges and risks, most notably the danger of flash floods, especially in mountainous areas and dry valleys that can transform into dangerous waterways in minutes. Downdrafts accompanying thunderstorms can also stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility and impacting land and air transport. The Civil Defense Directorate has issued repeated warnings to citizens and residents, urging them to take precautions, stay away from valleys and floodplains, and follow official updates.
A call to adhere to safety instructions
The National Center of Meteorology stressed the importance of following its ongoing reports and updates issued through its official channels. It also urged everyone to fully comply with safety instructions issued by the relevant authorities, particularly the Civil Defense, to ensure the safety of lives and property during the period of the weather event.
