this evening heavy rainfall, affecting several governorates and districts, including Haroub, Abu Arish, Al-Ardah, and Al-Harath. This rainfall led to flash floods in a number of valleys and ravines, creating a breathtaking natural scene that revived the land. Simultaneously, it prompted heightened vigilance and preparedness measures from the relevant authorities.
Jazan: Unique nature and a vibrant rainy season
The Jazan region is located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia and boasts a unique topography, ranging from coastal plains on the Red Sea to towering mountain ranges. This geographical diversity makes it susceptible to distinctive climatic patterns. During the summer, it is influenced by humid monsoon winds originating from the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea, resulting in a rainy season of immense importance. These monsoon rains are the lifeblood of the region, directly supporting Jazan's renowned agricultural sector, which produces a variety of tropical crops such as mangoes, coffee, and figs. The rains also replenish dams and groundwater wells, ensuring a year-round water supply for the population and agriculture.
The effects of heavy rainfall on Jazan and local preparations
While these rains bring numerous benefits, their intensity also presents challenges and risks, most notably the potential for flash floods in valleys that could endanger lives and property. They could also lead to road closures and traffic disruptions, necessitating a swift response from relevant authorities to ensure everyone's safety. This rainfall coincides with the forecast issued by the National Center for Meteorology, which had warned in its daily report that conditions remained favorable for thunderstorms accompanied by active winds in the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. The Civil Defense Directorate in the region has raised its level of preparedness and reiterates its calls for citizens and residents to exercise caution and stay away from floodplains and valley bottoms.
Weather forecast for the rest of the Kingdom
The warnings were not limited to the Jazan region. The National Center for Meteorology's report indicated that active winds stirring up dust and sand would continue to affect parts of Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Al-Qassim, Hail, Tabuk, and Madinah, reducing horizontal visibility in those areas. Regarding temperatures, Al-Ahsa recorded the highest temperature at 45 degrees Celsius, followed by Dammam at 42 degrees Celsius, reflecting the climatic variations the Kingdom is experiencing during this period.
