Various regions of Saudi Arabia are currently experiencing unstable weather conditions. The National Center for Meteorology a series of warnings regarding moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by flash floods, hail, and strong surface winds. These warnings are part of the authorities' commitment to ensuring the safety of citizens and residents and protecting property from the potential risks resulting from these weather fluctuations.
Basic safety guidelines from the Meteorology Department
In light of these volatile conditions, the National Center of Meteorology, through its official platforms, stressed the need to adhere to a set of preventive guidelines to ensure public safety. The recommendations included the following points:
- Avoid flood channels: Stay away completely from valleys and low-lying areas that may be prone to water accumulation and sudden flash floods.
- Caution during thunderstorms: Avoid being in open or high areas, and refrain from using mobile phones and electrically connected electronic devices during lightning to avoid electrocution.
- Staying at home: It is advised to stay at home and not go out except when absolutely necessary during the heavy rain, while continuously monitoring weather forecasts.
Heavy fog alerts for the Eastern Province
In a related weather development, the center issued a special alert for the Eastern Province regarding fog formation, which will reduce horizontal visibility. The report indicated that the fog will begin at 11:00 PM on Wednesday and continue until 8:00 AM on Thursday. This alert covers the cities and governorates of Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Al-Ahsa, Al-Udayd, and Abqaiq .
Forecasts indicate near-zero horizontal visibility, reaching between (1-3) kilometers, which requires drivers to exercise extreme caution, maintain safe distances, and use the designated fog lights.
Context of weather fluctuations in the Kingdom
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a continental climate characterized by sharp fluctuations during the transitional seasons and winter. Flash floods are among the most prominent natural hazards facing areas with rugged terrain and valleys. Over the past few years, the Kingdom has worked to develop an early warning system through the National Center for Meteorology to ensure that warnings are delivered accurately and quickly, thus contributing to the activation of emergency plans by the Civil Defense and security agencies.
The importance of adhering to official warnings
Adherence to these instructions is of paramount importance, extending beyond individual safety to encompass overall stability. Avoiding hazardous areas helps reduce the burden on rescue and civil defense teams and prevents traffic congestion and accidents that could disrupt daily life. Official authorities urge everyone to obtain information only from reliable sources and to disregard rumors that may circulate during severe weather events, ensuring a safe passage through this period.
