Weather forecast for Saudi Arabia today, Friday
The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Friday, detailing weather conditions in Saudi Arabia and warning of significant weather fluctuations, including moderate to heavy thunderstorms. This forecast comes as part of ongoing monitoring of weather conditions to ensure the safety of citizens and residents across the Kingdom. These warnings are essential for planning daily life and avoiding potential hazards.
Rainfall map and affected areas
The report indicated that the chance of thunderstorms accompanied by hail remains, potentially leading to flash floods in parts of the Eastern Province. This weather pattern will also be accompanied by strong winds that may stir up dust and sand, necessitating caution, especially for those using highways, to avoid traffic accidents.
In contrast, light to moderate rain is expected in parts of Najran, Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Riyadh. This weather pattern will also extend to parts of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and the Northern Borders regions. Meteorologists do not rule out the formation of fog during the night and early morning hours in parts of these regions, as well as in Hail and Qassim, which will significantly reduce horizontal visibility.
Maritime navigation situation: Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
Regarding the Red Sea, forecasts indicate that surface winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds ranging from 10 to 24 km/h, potentially reaching 45 km/h with the formation of rain-bearing thunderstorms over the southern part. Wave heights will range from half a meter to two meters, resulting in a slight to moderate sea state.
In the Arabian Gulf, surface winds will be northeasterly to southeasterly at speeds of 10-25 km/h, reaching up to 40 km/h with thunderstorms. Wave height will be similar to the Red Sea, with sea conditions ranging from slight to moderate, occasionally becoming rough, requiring caution from fishermen and other seafarers.
Advanced alerts for the Eastern Province
The National Center for Meteorology issued special alerts for the Eastern Province, forecasting light to moderate rain starting at 9:00 AM and continuing until 7:00 PM. The alert covers the cities of Al-Khobar, Dammam, Qatif, and Ras Tanura, and will be accompanied by strong winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms.
The warning also includes moderate rainfall in Jubail, Khafji, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya and Hafr Al-Batin, with accompanying effects including high-speed winds, near-zero visibility, hail, and flash floods.
Climate context and the importance of monitoring weather forecasts
Saudi Arabia is characterized by significant geographical and climatic diversity, making its weather prone to rapid fluctuations, especially during seasonal transitions. Historically, the Kingdom has experienced abundant rainfall, which has contributed to replenishing groundwater reserves and revitalizing vegetation, positively impacting the agricultural and environmental sectors and combating desertification.
Locally, these weather alerts play a crucial role in crisis management and traffic management, as well as assisting relevant authorities in making proactive decisions such as activating municipal emergency plans for flood drainage. Regionally, weather systems affecting Saudi Arabia often extend to neighboring Gulf countries, making Saudi meteorological reports an important reference for the entire region.
In the international context, monitoring these climate changes is part of global efforts to understand the impacts of climate change, with experts noting an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events in the Middle East. The significant development in the capabilities of the National Center of Meteorology reflects the Kingdom's commitment to providing accurate and reliable data that contributes to protecting lives and property and supports sustainable development plans.
