Weather forecast: Rainy conditions will continue in Saudi Arabia until Thursday
National Center of Meteorology forecasts
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia announced that the rainy weather affecting most regions of the Kingdom will continue, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and hail until next Thursday. This forecast is part of the center's ongoing monitoring to ensure the safety of citizens and residents and to provide early warnings for effectively managing weather fluctuations.
Details of the rainfall situation and affected areas
Weather reports indicate that the current rainy weather system is affecting large parts of the Kingdom, including Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, Qassim, the Eastern Province, and the southwestern highlands such as Asir, Jazan, and Al-Baha. Rainfall intensity varies from moderate to heavy, potentially leading to flash floods in valleys and ravines—a natural phenomenon common at this time of year. This rain is accompanied by strong downdrafts that may stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility on some highways and in open areas.
General context and historical background of the Kingdom's climate
Saudi Arabia is characterized by a predominantly arid desert climate, but it experiences seasonal weather fluctuations and recurring rainfall, particularly during the transitional periods between seasons or in winter. Historically, rainfall in the Arabian Peninsula has been a vital source of life, contributing to the replenishment of groundwater reserves and the flourishing of vegetation. With modern advancements, the National Center of Meteorology now relies on the latest technologies, radars, and numerical weather models to monitor these conditions with high accuracy, thus mitigating the risks posed by flash floods, which have historically plagued some mountainous and desert regions.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Locally, this rainfall has multifaceted effects. On the positive side, the rain contributes to supporting the agricultural sector, enhancing water resources, and bolstering major environmental initiatives such as the 'Green Saudi Arabia' initiative, which aims to increase green spaces and combat desertification. However, from an operational and daily perspective, the continued heavy rainfall necessitates a state of alert among relevant authorities. Education departments often switch to distance learning via the 'My School' platform to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Safety and Civil Defense Guidelines
Under these weather conditions, the General Directorate of Civil Defense continues to emphasize the need for caution and vigilance. It urges everyone to remain in safe locations during rainfall, to stay away from valleys and flood channels, and to avoid swimming in or crossing them by vehicle, given the extreme danger they pose to life and property. It also advises following the continuous updates issued by the National Center of Meteorology through its official channels to receive any new warnings and to act accordingly and responsibly.
