Weather forecast for Saudi Arabia: Heavy rain and flash floods expected until Sunday
An introduction to the weather in Saudi Arabia and forecasts for the coming days
Saudi Arabia is experiencing severe weather fluctuations, with the National Center for Meteorology forecasting moderate to heavy thunderstorms across most of the Kingdom. This weather system is expected to begin on Wednesday and continue until next Sunday, accompanied by flash floods and the possibility of tornadoes. These forecasts come amidst strong official warnings urging adherence to public safety guidelines to avoid potential hazards.
General context and climate change in the Arabian Peninsula
Historically, the Arabian Peninsula is known for its arid desert climate, but seasonal transitions often bring periods of atmospheric instability. In recent years, there has been an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events, which meteorologists attribute to global climate change. These changes are having a tangible impact on the region, making weather forecasting and early warning systems vital tools for protecting lives and property and enhancing the readiness of infrastructure to cope with heavy rainfall.
Rainfall map and its effects on the regions of the Kingdom
The National Center for Meteorology revealed that the weather conditions will include the northern border regions, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, Madinah, Hail, and Al-Qassim, where moderate to heavy rains will peak on Wednesday and Thursday.
Weather in Mecca and Riyadh
The center explained that the effects will extend to parts of the Makkah region, including the governorates of Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Turabah, Al-Muwayh, Al-Khurmah, and Ranyah, with rainfall reaching heavy levels until Friday. In the Riyadh region, the governorates of Ad-Diriyah, Al-Muzahmiyah, Al-Kharj, Ad-Dilam, Al-Hariq, Ar-Rayn, Al-Qiddiyah, Rumah, Al-Aflaj, and Hawtat Bani Tamim will be affected by heavy rain on Wednesday and Thursday. The system also includes Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Al-Quway'iyah, Ad-Dawadimi, Afif, Shaqra, Thadiq, Huraymila, Dhurma, and Marat, with the rain turning to light rain over the weekend, while Wadi Ad-Dawasir and As-Sulayyil will experience heavy rain on Wednesday.
Weather in Asir, Al-Baha, Jazan and the Eastern Province
The report indicated that the Al-Baha region and its governorates, in addition to the Asir region (Abha, Khamis Mushait, Ahad Rafidah, Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Al-Harjah, Bisha, Al-Namas, Tanomah, Rijal Alma, Bariq, Muhayil Asir, Al-Majardah, Balqarn, and Al-Farshah), will be affected by moderate rainfall continuing until Sunday. The Jazan region is also experiencing similar rainfall, including Al-Raith, Haroub, Al-Dayer, Al-Aydabi, Fayfa, Al-Ardah, and Al-Harth. The weather system extends to the Eastern Province, bringing heavy rain to Hafr Al-Batin and Al-Khafji starting Thursday and peaking on Sunday.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Locally, these rains are crucial for replenishing groundwater and supporting the agricultural sector. However, their intensity necessitates a mobilization of relevant authorities, such as civil defense and municipalities, to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent water accumulation. Regionally, this weather pattern reflects an extension of low-pressure systems affecting neighboring Gulf countries, requiring ongoing coordination and the exchange of climate data.
Severe weather phenomena and safety guidelines
The center warned of severe weather phenomena accompanying the storm, including downdrafts that could stir up dust and sand, flash floods, hail, and high waves, with the possibility of tornadoes or waterspouts forming in coastal areas and those experiencing heavy rainfall. The center concluded its report by emphasizing the continued chance of rain until the end of next week and stressing the importance of monitoring the early warning platform and the weather app, as well as strictly adhering to the instructions of the relevant authorities to protect lives.
