National Center of Meteorology weather warnings
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced details of the expected weather conditions for Saturday, warning of significant weather fluctuations, including heavy thunderstorms across large parts of eight administrative regions. These warnings come as part of the authorities' commitment to the safety of citizens and residents, as following weather forecasts is crucial to avoid risks associated with flash floods and reduced visibility on roads.
Rainfall map details and affected areas
According to the official statement issued by the Meteorology Department, thunderstorms ranging from moderate to heavy are expected to continue. The most severe weather conditions are concentrated in the southwestern region, where the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions will experience heavy rainfall that may lead to flash floods in valleys and ravines, accompanied by hail and strong downdrafts.
Thunderstorms with rain are expected to extend to parts of Najran, Makkah, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the Northern Borders region, with rainfall ranging from moderate to heavy. Meteorologists also anticipate scattered thunderstorms in parts of Qassim and Hail, urging caution.
The effect of surface winds and dust storms
In addition to rainfall, the report warned of significant surface wind activity that could stir up dust and sand. This activity may lead to reduced horizontal visibility, potentially reaching near-zero visibility in parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of the Al-Jawf and Tabuk regions. This necessitates extreme caution from drivers on highways and open roads.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Regarding maritime navigation, which is of great economic and commercial importance, the report explained the situation in Bahrain:
- Red Sea: North to northwest surface winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 40 km/h across the northern and central parts. In the southern part, winds will be northwesterly to southwesterly at speeds of 10-30 km/h, potentially reaching 60 km/h with the development of thunderstorms. Wave heights will range from 1 to 1.5 meters in the north and central regions, while exceeding 2 meters in the south, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state, becoming rough in the southern section.
- The Arabian Gulf: The waters of the Gulf are experiencing northeasterly to southeasterly surface winds at speeds of 15-30 km/h, increasing to over 45 km/h with thunderstorms. Wave heights range from half a meter to one and a half meters, and may exceed two meters, resulting in sea conditions ranging from slight to moderate, occasionally becoming rough.
Geographical context and the impact of climate change
Historically and geographically, Saudi Arabia is characterized by a vast and diverse topography that directly influences its climate. The southwestern highlands (such as Asir and Al-Baha) typically receive the highest rainfall due to their mountainous terrain, which helps lift and cool moist air masses from the Red Sea, leading to condensation and precipitation. The transitional periods between seasons are among the most volatile, characterized by the formation of cumulonimbus clouds that can bring thunderstorms across large areas of central and eastern Saudi Arabia.
Local and regional importance and impact
These rainfalls are of paramount importance locally; they directly contribute to replenishing groundwater and raising water levels in dams, thus supporting the agricultural sector and enhancing the Kingdom's water security. However, the heavy rainfall necessitates a mobilization of the General Directorate of Civil Defense and municipal authorities to manage water accumulation and mitigate the risks of flash floods.
At the regional and international levels, the stability of navigation in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf is a vital artery for global trade and energy exports. Therefore, the precise maritime warnings issued by the National Center of Meteorology play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of commercial vessels and oil tankers, reflecting the Kingdom's important role in providing reliable meteorological data to protect lives and property and support the global economy.
