The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an important warning on Friday regarding the expected weather conditions in the southern and southwestern parts of the Kingdom, indicating the continuation of weather fluctuations characterized by rainfall and surface wind activity.
Weather details in the Jazan region
The center explained in its daily report that the Jazan region is experiencing light rainfall, accompanied by various weather effects including active surface winds, leading to a noticeable decrease in horizontal visibility, as well as thunderstorms. The center identified the affected areas as encompassing a large number of governorates and centers, namely: Baysh, Al-Darb, Sabya, Damad, Samtah, Al-Tuwal, Abu Arish, Ahad Al-Masarihah, Al-Harth, Al-Dayer Bani Malik, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, Harub, in addition to Farasan Island and the Al-Fatihah center.
The National Center for Meteorology indicated that this weather condition in the Jazan region will continue - God willing - until seven o'clock this Friday evening, calling on citizens and residents to be cautious and vigilant.
Rain and wind in the Al-Baha region
In a related development, the meteorological department issued a warning about a similar weather system affecting the Al-Baha region, where rain accompanied by strong winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms is expected. This system includes the city of Al-Baha itself, as well as the governorates of Al-Aqiq, Baljurashi, Al-Qura, Bani Hassan, Al-Mandaq, Al-Makhwah, Qalwah, Al-Hajrah, Ghamid Al-Zanad, and surrounding areas. The center indicated that the weather conditions in Al-Baha would persist until 8:00 PM.
The geographical and climatic context of the southern regions
The Jazan and Al-Baha regions possess unique geographical and climatic characteristics that distinguish them from the rest of the Kingdom. These regions lie within the southwestern highlands and the Sarawat Mountains, which play a pivotal role in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall, particularly during transitional periods and the winter season. These areas are typically affected by moisture originating from the Red Sea, which collides with the mountains, creating atmospheric instability and making them prone to frequent thunderstorms and downdrafts.
The importance of warnings and safety guidelines
The National Center of Meteorology's warnings are of paramount importance for maintaining public safety. This information is vital for drivers on highways and rugged roads in mountainous areas, given the potential for vehicles to skid or experience reduced visibility due to fog and dust storms. These warnings are typically accompanied by calls from the General Directorate of Civil Defense urging people to stay away from valleys and floodplains, and to avoid low-lying areas during rainfall, to ensure the safety of lives and property.
