The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced heavy rainfall accompanied by severe weather phenomena that may affect the course of daily life and the safety of citizens and residents.
The center explained in its report that the expected weather conditions include heavy thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds that may stir up dust and sand before the rain, in addition to near-zero horizontal visibility, hail, and a high probability of flash floods in valleys and ravines. The report also indicated the formation of dense fog, which will make travel on highways and in mountainous areas more difficult.
Areas covered by the warning and timing of the situation
The warning included the city of Al-Baha itself, as well as a large number of its governorates and districts, namely: Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Aqiq, Al-Makhwah, Qalwah, Al-Hajrah, Ghamid Al-Zanad, and the areas surrounding these regions. The center indicated that this unstable weather condition will continue, God willing, until 1:00 PM tomorrow, Monday.
Geographical context and importance of the warning
These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Al-Baha region, characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain and steep slopes within the Sarawat Mountains. This terrain makes the region more prone to flash floods and rapid flows following heavy rainfall, necessitating extra caution from residents and visitors, especially in valleys and floodplains.
Civil Defense and Public Safety Guidelines
In conjunction with the weather report, the General Directorate of Civil Defense renewed its warnings to citizens and residents, urging everyone to exercise caution and adhere to the instructions and regulations issued by official authorities. Civil Defense emphasized the importance of staying away from low-lying areas, not attempting to cross valleys while they are flowing regardless of the water level, and avoiding open areas and places near trees during lightning and thunder.
Weather conditions in Mecca
In a related development concerning the weather in the western region, the center had previously issued a warning regarding the Makkah region, forecasting light to moderate rainfall. This includes the Holy City of Makkah, as well as the governorates of Jeddah, Bahrah, Khulais, Rabigh, Al-Kamil, Al-Jumum, Al-Lith, and Al-Qunfudhah. This weather pattern is expected to begin tomorrow, Monday, and continue until next Wednesday, necessitating continuous monitoring of weather forecasts.
