Introduction to today's weather in Saudi Arabia
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia, warning of significant weather fluctuations affecting 12 regions. These forecasts come amidst ongoing climate changes in the region, with the country experiencing atmospheric instability characterized by thunderstorms of varying intensity and strong surface winds that are stirring up dust and sand.
General context and climate impacts in the Kingdom
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by significant geographical and climatic diversity, making it susceptible to sharp weather fluctuations during seasonal transitions. Historically, the southwestern and western highlands experience seasonal rainfall that replenishes groundwater and supports vegetation, positively impacting the local agricultural sector. However, the intensity of these rainfalls necessitates a high level of preparedness from relevant authorities to manage flash floods in valleys and ravines. Early warnings issued by the National Center of Meteorology play a vital role in protecting lives and property and minimizing potential negative impacts on land and air transport.
Rain and wind details across the Kingdom's regions
The report indicated continued moderate to heavy thunderstorms, potentially leading to flash floods, accompanied by hail and strong downdrafts, affecting parts of the Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, and Najran regions. The effects of this weather system also extend to parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions, particularly their southern areas.
In contrast, light to moderate rain is expected in parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, and Al-Qassim regions. Dust-raising winds will also be active, reducing horizontal visibility in parts of these regions, as well as parts of the Madinah region.
Red alert: Severe warnings for 3 regions
The National Center of Meteorology issued a "red alert" warning of torrential rain starting at noon and continuing until 9 pm. The accompanying effects include high winds, reduced horizontal visibility, hail, flash floods, and thunderstorms.
This condition is concentrated in the following areas:
- Mecca: Maysan Governorate.
- Asir: Al-Amwah, Al-Arin, Tathlith, Tarib, Al-Harjah, Al-Rabou’ah, Al-Farsha, Sarat Abidah, and Dhahran Al-Janoub.
- Najran: Badr Al Janoub, Thar, Habuna, Khabash, Najran, and Yadma.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Given the importance of maritime navigation and the impact of weather on it, the report detailed the state of the sea:
Red Sea: The northern and central parts are experiencing northwesterly to northerly surface winds with speeds ranging from 20 to 48 km/h, while wind speeds in the southern part range from 15 to 38 km/h. Wave heights range from 1 to 2 meters in the north and center, and from half a meter to 1.5 meters in the south, resulting in moderate to rough sea conditions in some areas.
Arabian Gulf: Surface winds will be westerly to southwesterly at 15-30 km/h, shifting to easterly and northeasterly in the afternoon in the north, and northwesterly to westerly at 20-45 km/h in the central and southern parts. Wave height will range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the north, and from one to two and a half meters in the central and southern parts, making the sea slight in the north and moderate to rough in other areas.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Locally, these rains contribute to replenishing water reserves in dams, supporting the Kingdom's vision of achieving water and environmental security. Adherence to Civil Defense instructions and avoidance of valleys by citizens and residents is crucial for ensuring public safety. Regionally, these accurate reports reflect the significant advancements in the Saudi meteorological system, which has become a reliable source for monitoring climate change in the Arabian Peninsula, thus enhancing the region's overall ability to cope with extreme weather events.
