The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued Makkah . The center's report indicates expectations of heavy rainfall continuing until 9:00 PM this Thursday, urging citizens and residents to exercise caution.
Details of the weather conditions and associated phenomena
The center explained in its report that the expected rainfall will be unusual, accompanied by a number of severe weather phenomena. These include high-speed winds that could stir up dust and break trees in open areas, as well as near-zero horizontal visibility, posing a danger to highway drivers. The forecast also includes heavy hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and strong thunderstorms.
The areas covered by this warning include Taif, Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, and Turabah . In a related matter, the center indicated that Ranyah Governorate will experience light rainfall, accompanied by surface wind activity and reduced visibility.
Geographical and climatic context of the region
These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Makkah region, specifically the Taif governorate and its surrounding areas. These regions lie within the Sarawat Mountains, characterized by rugged terrain and steep slopes, making them prone to the formation of rapidly traveling flash floods during heavy rainfall. Such weather fluctuations are part of the region's climatic characteristics during the transitional periods between seasons, when cumulonimbus clouds and rain-bearing thunderstorms become active.
Weather forecast for the rest of the Kingdom
The weather conditions are not limited to Mecca alone, but extend to other regions of the Kingdom. The National Center for Meteorology expects continued thunderstorms accompanied by hail and strong winds in parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions, extending to include the southern parts of the Madinah region.
Conversely, other areas are experiencing surface winds that are stirring up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility, particularly in the eastern parts of the southwestern highlands, as well as parts of Najran, Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, and Al-Jawf regions, extending to the western parts of the Northern Borders region. Scattered light rain is also possible in parts of central Saudi Arabia.
The importance of adhering to safety instructions
Under this “red alert,” relevant authorities, primarily the Civil Defense, emphasize the need to stay away from valleys and flood channels, and to avoid low-lying areas and water accumulations. This automated early warning system is a vital tool for enhancing the preparedness of service and security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property, and to reduce the risks resulting from severe weather fluctuations.
