The National Center for Meteorology denies rumors of hurricanes in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology issued an official statement confirming the inaccuracy of rumors circulating recently on social media platforms regarding the Kingdom being hit by devastating cyclones in the coming days. This clarification comes as part of the official authorities' commitment to reassuring citizens and residents and putting an end to misleading information that could cause panic among the public during the current weather fluctuations.
Details of the expected rainfall
In a related context, the center explained that the Kingdom will experience unstable weather conditions, with the peak expected tomorrow, Thursday. Forecasts indicate moderate to heavy rainfall across large parts of the Kingdom. The heaviest rainfall is likely in specific areas, including the Eastern Province, Makkah, Madinah, Al-Baha, and Asir.
The weather conditions will not be limited to rain only, but will be accompanied by other weather phenomena, which include a noticeable activity of very high-speed surface winds, which may stir up dust and sand, leading to a decrease in horizontal visibility, as well as the possibility of hail showers in some highlands and mountainous areas.
The geographical and climatic context of the Kingdom
Geographically and climatically, Saudi Arabia is generally considered to be outside the paths of destructive tropical cyclones that typically strike coastlines open to the oceans. Historically, the Kingdom has been affected by atmospheric instability resulting in heavy thunderstorms and flash floods in valleys and ravines, but these do not qualify as cyclones in the strict scientific sense. Rare exceptions include the indirect effects of some tropical systems that form in the Arabian Sea, which usually weaken and transform into deep depressions once they reach land. Therefore, the current warnings fall within the normal range of typical seasonal weather fluctuations in the Arabian Peninsula.
The importance of obtaining information from official sources
In light of technological advancements and the rapid spread of information, the National Center of Meteorology stressed the need for caution and urged the public to completely avoid circulating or believing weather-related rumors. The center called on everyone to obtain information and early warnings only from official and accredited channels.
He also emphasized the importance of making the best use of the instructions and guidelines issued by the relevant authorities, foremost among them the General Directorate of Civil Defense, which works alongside the Meteorology Department to ensure the safety of lives and property. It is always advised to avoid valleys and flood channels during rainfall and to drive safely in conditions of poor visibility.
