Red alert in Mecca and Asir
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced warning, reaching the level of "red alert," on Thursday, warning of heavy rainfall across large parts of the Makkah and Asir regions. The center explained that this weather system will be accompanied by severe effects including high-speed winds, reduced horizontal visibility, hail, flash floods, and thunderstorms. In the Makkah region, the warning covers the governorates of Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, Turabah, and Ranyah. In the Asir region, the warning focuses on the city of Abha and the governorates of Ahad Rafidah and Khamis Mushait.
The climatic context of the western and southwestern regions
These warnings come within the context of the climatic pattern that characterizes the western and southwestern highlands of the Kingdom. While arid conditions prevail across most of the country, these regions, particularly the Sarawat Mountains, experience a semi-regular rainy season during the spring and summer. Thunderstorms frequently develop over the mountains due to daytime heating and the availability of moisture, resulting in heavy rainfall over short periods. This mountainous terrain and dry valleys make the region particularly vulnerable to flash floods, which can form rapidly and pose a significant threat to life and property if proper precautions are not taken.
Importance and expected effects
This warning is of particular importance in the Makkah region due to its sanctity and the large number of pilgrims and visitors it receives throughout the year. The relevant authorities, primarily the General Directorate of Civil Defense and the Special Force for the Security of the Grand Mosque, are activating emergency plans to ensure the safety of those visiting the Grand Mosque and the residents of the area. In the Asir region, a major tourist destination in the Kingdom, these weather conditions may affect tourism and travel between its cities and governorates, especially on mountain roads. Authorities have urged citizens and residents to exercise extreme caution, stay away from valleys and floodplains, and remain in safe locations.
Weather conditions in other regions of the Kingdom
The warnings were not limited to Mecca and Asir. The National Center for Meteorology indicated that parts of the Eastern Province would continue to be affected by a weather system that includes light rain and active winds stirring up dust and sand, particularly in Hafr al-Batin. Al-Ahsa and Abqaiq are also experiencing active winds leading to reduced visibility. Other cities such as Jubail, Khobar, Dammam, Dhahran, Qatif, and Ras Tanura are affected by active winds that may reach speeds of up to 49 kilometers per hour, accompanied by high waves and reduced horizontal visibility, necessitating caution for those traveling on land and sea routes.
