Meteorology: Heavy rains and floods in the Eastern Province, Riyadh, and 10 other regions
The National Center for Meteorology issued a detailed report on the expected weather conditions for Friday and Saturday, February 6 and 7, warning of severe weather fluctuations including moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by flash floods and hail, in addition to surface wind activity that will stir up dust and sand in large parts of the Kingdom.
Weather details and affected areas
The center explained in its report that the Eastern Province is the most affected region, with heavy rainfall expected in Hafr Al-Batin, Khafji, Qaryat Al-Ulya, and Al-Nairiyah. The weather system will also extend to Jubail, Dammam, Khobar, and Al-Ahsa, with varying intensities of rain. In the Riyadh region , heavy rain is expected in the governorates of Afif, Dawadmi, and Al-Majma'ah, while the capital, Riyadh, and its southern governorates will experience light to moderate rain.
The warnings also included the Qassim and all its governorates, as well as the Hail , where flash floods are expected in valleys and ravines due to heavy rainfall. The regions of Madinah, Makkah, and Al-Baha were not spared from this weather system, with the highlands of Taif and Al-Baha expected to experience rain that could reduce horizontal visibility.
Technical criteria for rainfall conditions
The center revealed detailed technical information regarding the severity of the weather event, indicating that rainfall could range from 10 to 50 mm per hour or more, amounts sufficient to cause significant water accumulation and flash flooding. This rainfall may be accompanied by strong downdrafts exceeding 60 km/h , potentially leading to dust storms and the formation of tornadoes or waterspouts along the coast, necessitating the utmost caution.
The importance of adhering to official warnings
These warnings come as part of the Kingdom's commitment to the safety of citizens and residents, as these weather fluctuations are a natural part of the Kingdom's climate during the transitional periods between seasons. While these rains play a vital role in replenishing groundwater, they also require public awareness to address the risks of flash floods.
The National Center for Meteorology called on everyone to follow the latest developments through official channels and the “Anwaa” application, and to stay away from valleys and flood channels, and to adhere to the instructions of the Civil Defense to ensure public safety during this active weather condition.
