The Al-Baha region experienced significant weather fluctuations today, characterized by scattered rainfall ranging from moderate to heavy. This led to the flow of wadis and streams in some areas, accompanied by near-zero horizontal visibility due to dense fog that blanketed the Sarawat Mountains. This rainy weather affected wide and scattered parts of Al-Baha city and its suburbs, as well as the governorates of Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Al-Aqiq, Al-Makhwah, Qalwah, Ghamid Al-Zanad, Al-Hajrah, and their affiliated centers, creating a distinctly wintry atmosphere in the region.
Weather alerts and fog conditions in Al-Jawf
In a related development concerning the weather in the Kingdom, the National Center for Meteorology issued a warning about light fog affecting the governorates of Qurayyat and Tabarjal in the Al-Jawf region. The center explained in its report that this condition would begin at 1:00 AM and continue until 8:00 AM on Sunday, expecting a decrease in horizontal visibility ranging between 3 and 5 kilometers. Drivers on highways and open roads are advised to exercise caution.
Geographical nature and its impact on the climate of Al-Baha
These heavy rains are part of the typical climate of the Al-Baha region, where its rugged mountainous terrain plays a key role in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall. Located on the Sarawat Mountains, Al-Baha's high elevation makes it susceptible to moist air fronts originating from the Red Sea. These fronts collide with the mountains, condense, and fall as rain, particularly during the transitional seasons and winter. While these geographical characteristics make Al-Baha a popular tourist destination, they also necessitate a robust infrastructure for stormwater drainage and increased public awareness of the risks of flash floods.
Safety guidelines and the importance of early warnings
Given these volatile weather conditions, relevant authorities, particularly the Civil Defense, emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during rainfall and flash floods. It is always advised to stay away from valleys and flood channels and not to attempt to cross them, no matter how low the water level may seem. Drivers in foggy areas, such as Al Qurayyat and Tabuk, are advised to use fog lights, maintain a safe following distance, and reduce speed to avoid traffic accidents caused by reduced visibility. These early warnings issued by the National Center for Meteorology are crucial in protecting lives and property, as they contribute to enhancing the preparedness of both service providers and citizens to deal with rainfall and various weather phenomena.
