Introduction: Weather fluctuations dominate the Kingdom's weather
Saudi Arabia is experiencing significant weather fluctuations in the coming days, with the National Center for Meteorology announcing that most regions of the Kingdom will be affected by scattered thunderstorms. This weather system will begin tomorrow, Friday, April 10th, and continue until Tuesday, April 14th. The intensity of the rainfall will range from moderate to heavy, with intermittent periods of activity expected. Citizens and residents across all provinces are advised to take precautions.
Climate context: Spring rains and their strategic importance
This rainfall comes within the context of the seasonal climate changes that the Arabian Peninsula experiences during spring, a period known locally as the spring fluctuations or "Sarayat," characterized by the rapid formation of cumulonimbus clouds. Historically, April rains have been of great importance to the Kingdom, as they directly contribute to replenishing groundwater and raising the water levels in dams across the country. These rains also play a vital role in supporting the agricultural sector and enhancing vegetation cover, which aligns with the objectives of the "Saudi Green Initiative." This, in turn, positively impacts the local environment and contributes to reducing dust storms in the long term.
Details of the rainfall situation in the western and southern regions
According to the official report issued by the General Directorate of Weather and Climate Forecasts, the Makkah region is at the forefront of this weather system, with the governorates of Turabah, Al-Muwayh, Al-Khurmah, and Ranyah experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall. The heaviest rainfall is expected on Monday and Tuesday in Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al-Ardiyat. Moderate rainfall is also expected in Makkah, Jeddah, Bahrah, and Al-Jumum, while light to moderate rain is expected in Al-Qunfudhah and Al-Lith.
In the same context, the weather system extends to include the Al-Baha region (including Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, Al-Aqiq, Qalwa, and Al-Makhwah), the Asir region (Abha, Khamis Mushait, Al-Namas, Mahayil, and Rijal Alma), the Jazan region (Fayfa, Al-Ardah, Sabya, Baysh, and Farasan), and the Najran region. The meteorological department expects heavy rainfall to intensify in these southern and southwestern sectors starting Saturday and continuing until the end of the weather system, increasing the likelihood of flash floods in valleys and ravines.
The impact of rainfall on the central, eastern, and northern regions of the Kingdom
The forecast extends beyond the west and south to the heart of the Kingdom. The Riyadh region is experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall, particularly in Wadi Al-Dawasir, As-Sulayyil, and Al-Aflaj, with the intensity increasing on Sunday and Monday. The capital, Riyadh, as well as Ad-Diriyah, Al-Kharj, Al-Muzahmiyah, and Hawtat Bani Tamim, are also affected. In the Eastern Province, Hafr Al-Batin, Al-Khafji, Dammam, Jubail, and Al-Ahsa will experience varying levels of rainfall.
In Qassim (Buraidah, Unaizah, Ar Rass), the Northern Borders (Rafha) and Madinah (Al Mahd, Khaybar, Al Ula), light to moderate rain is expected, which will contribute to cooling the atmosphere and a noticeable drop in temperatures.
Warnings and expected impacts on public safety
From a security and public health perspective, the National Center of Meteorology emphasized that this rainy weather system may be accompanied by severe weather phenomena, most notably strong downdrafts that could reach speeds of up to 60 km/h, causing dust storms and reducing horizontal visibility, thus impacting traffic on highways. Hail is also expected, along with high waves along the coast and the possibility of waterspouts.
These circumstances necessitate a concerted effort among all relevant authorities and adherence to the guidelines issued by the General Directorate of Civil Defense to ensure the safety of lives and property. Everyone is advised to follow the regular updates issued by the center's official platforms and to stay away from floodplains and water accumulations to ensure the safe passage of this weather event.
