Saudi Arabia rainfall: Mecca records the highest amount at 47 mm across 5 regions
The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture issued its daily rainfall report, revealing varying levels of precipitation across five different administrative regions. Hydrological data from weather stations showed that the Makkah region received the heaviest rainfall, indicating a promising rainy season that will contribute to replenishing the Kingdom's water reserves.
Details of rainfall amounts in the monitored areas
According to the report covering the monitoring period from 9:00 AM on Friday, March 6th, until 9:00 AM the following day, (23) hydrological and climatological monitoring stations recorded rainfall in Riyadh, Mecca, Medina, Asir, and Al-Baha. The numerical details are as follows:
- The Makkah region recorded the highest rainfall, reaching 47 mm in the Al-Quray' Bani Malik center in the Maysan governorate. The Haddad Bani Malik area in Taif recorded 30.3 mm, while the Al-Marqaban station in the Adham governorate recorded 7 mm.
- Al-Baha region: It ranked highly in terms of rainfall, with Al-Baher station recording (7.4) mm and Shabraqa station recording (4.8) mm.
- Madinah region: Moderate rainfall was recorded, with Al-Ruwaidah recording (4) mm, and Al-Sulhaniyah station in Al-Mahd governorate recording (0.6) mm.
- Riyadh region: Halban station in Al-Quwai’iyah Governorate recorded rainfall of (2.8) mm.
- Asir region: Afraa in Balqarn Governorate recorded (1.4) mm, and Wadi Al-Hajoun station in Bisha recorded (0.8) mm.
Environmental and geographical importance of monsoon rains
These rainfall patterns are of paramount importance within the environmental and geographical context of Saudi Arabia. Geographically, data show that heavy rainfall is concentrated in the southwestern highlands (Sarawat Mountains), encompassing Makkah, Al-Baha, and Asir. These regions are characterized by their mountainous terrain, which acts as a barrier against moist winds, leading to cloud condensation and rainfall exceeding that of central regions like Riyadh.
These rains play a pivotal role in supporting natural vegetation, especially in the spring, contributing to the success of national afforestation initiatives such as the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative. The resulting runoff from valleys and streams also replenishes dams and shallow groundwater, upon which farmers and livestock breeders in these areas heavily rely.
The role of hydrological monitoring in water resources management
This report highlights the vital role played by the Ministry's hydrological and climatological monitoring network. Through these precise stations, relevant authorities can manage water resources efficiently, directing floodwaters towards dams for irrigation and drinking water, in addition to their role in providing early warnings to mitigate flood risks.
The relevant authorities always call on citizens and residents to exercise caution during rainfall, to stay away from flood channels and valleys, and to take advantage of this rainy weather in a way that enhances the agricultural and pastoral environment in the Kingdom.
