Thunderstorms continue across the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia forecasts continued thunderstorms across most regions of the Kingdom until next Thursday. The intensity of these rains will vary from light to moderate, and may become heavy in some areas, necessitating caution and adherence to ongoing updates from official authorities.
Climate context and the importance of early warning
This weather pattern comes amidst the climate changes affecting the Arabian Peninsula, where transitional periods between seasons are known for their sharp weather fluctuations. Historically, Saudi Arabia experiences periods of atmospheric instability at this time of year, contributing to beneficial rainfall that replenishes water reserves and underground reservoirs. At the same time, these conditions necessitate a high level of preparedness from relevant authorities, particularly the Civil Defense, to address any emergencies that may arise from heavy rainfall, flash floods, and overflowing wadis.
Details of the rainfall situation in Riyadh and the Eastern Province
Forecasts indicate that the Eastern Province will experience light to moderate rain, including in Abqaiq, Khobar, Qatif, Ras Tanura, Jubail, Dammam, and Nairyah, while heavier rainfall is expected in Al-Ahsa Governorate. In the Riyadh region, rain is expected in Zulfi, Ghat, Shaqra, Marat, Dhurma, Muzahmiya, Riyadh city, Majmaah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Diriyah, Rumah, Dawadmi, Quway'iyah, and Kharj. Rain may become heavy in Wadi Ad-Dawasir, As-Sulayyil, Al-Aflaj, Ar-Rayn, Al-Hariq, Ad-Dilam, and Hawtat Bani Tamim.
Rain in Tabuk, Hail, and the Northern Borders
In the north of the Kingdom, the weather report indicated that the Tabuk region would be affected by light rain, including the cities of Tabuk, Tayma, Haql, Al-Bada, Neom, Duba, and Al-Wajh. The weather system would extend to the Al-Jawf region, encompassing Al-Qurayyat, Tabarjal, Dumat Al-Jandal, and Sakaka, as well as the Hail region, including its various governorates such as Al-Hait, Al-Shanan, Baqaa, Samira, Al-Ghazala, Al-Shamli, Muwaqq, and Al-Sulaimi. The Northern Borders region, including Rafha, Al-Uwaiqilah, Arar, and Tarif, would also experience varying intensities of rain at different times.
Weather effects on the western and southern regions
Moving to the western and southern sectors, the Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions will be affected by rainfall. The forecast includes Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Qura, and Al-Aqiq. In Asir, rain is expected in Ahad Rafidah, Khamis Mushait, Sarat Abidah, Al-Namas, Tanomah, Muhayil Asir, Al-Majardah, and Balqarn. Jazan will also see rainfall in the governorates of Al-Raith, Haroub, Al-Dayer, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, Al-Ardah, and Al-Harth, in addition to Al-Ula in Madinah, and the Qassim and Najran regions.
Accompanying weather phenomena and safety guidelines
The weather conditions are not limited to rainfall; they are accompanied by several weather phenomena, including strong downdrafts that may reach speeds of 50 to 60 kilometers per hour, causing dust storms and reducing horizontal visibility. Hail is also expected, along with flash floods in valleys and ravines, and high waves along the coasts. The National Center of Meteorology urges everyone to follow alerts via the "Anwaa" app and social media platforms, adhere to safety instructions, and stay away from areas where water accumulates and flood channels.
