The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important weather alert on Thursday regarding the weather in the Asir region, indicating expectations of moderate rainfall that may directly affect a number of governorates, and this unstable weather condition will continue until the early evening hours.
Weather details in Asir
The center explained in its daily report that the expected weather conditions include moderate rainfall, accompanied by several weather phenomena that require caution. Among the most prominent of these accompanying effects are active surface winds that may be very strong at times, leading to dust storms and near-zero horizontal visibility, especially on highways and in open areas.
The report also indicated the possibility of hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and thunderstorms. The center specifically identified the governorates of Rijal Alma and Mahayil , confirming that the weather conditions would continue, God willing, until 8:00 PM this evening.
The geographical and climatic context of the Asir region
These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Asir region, which is characterized by rugged mountainous terrain and steep slopes, especially in the Tihama Asir governorates such as Rijal Alma and Muhayil. This topography makes the region more susceptible to the formation of flash floods that travel rapidly when it rains in the highlands, requiring extra vigilance from residents and visitors.
The Asir region is among the areas in the Kingdom that receive the most rainfall throughout the year, thanks to its location within the Sarawat Mountains, which act as windbreaks, trapping moist winds and leading to cloud condensation and rainfall. This rainfall plays a vital role in supporting vegetation and water reserves, but it requires careful management to avoid the risk of flash floods.
Safety guidelines and the importance of adhering to instructions
Under these weather conditions, the General Directorate of Civil Defense and other relevant authorities typically urge citizens and residents to exercise caution. It is advised to stay away from floodplains and wadis, and not to attempt to cross wadis while they are flowing, no matter how low the water level may appear.
Experts also stress the importance of continuously monitoring official weather bulletins issued by the National Center for Meteorology, avoiding low-lying areas and water accumulations, and adhering to traffic safety instructions while driving in light of low horizontal visibility, rain, and hail, to ensure the safety of lives and property.
