Saudi Arabia is experiencing unstable weather conditions, with the National Center for Meteorology issuing its daily weather forecast for various regions of the Kingdom. The report predicts rainfall of varying intensity, ranging from moderate to heavy, across large parts of the country, accompanied by active surface winds that may stir up dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility in some areas. A significant temperature difference is also expected between the north and south of the Kingdom.
The climatic context and the importance of rainfall in Saudi Arabia
These weather fluctuations occur during a period known climatologically for increased chances of cumulonimbus cloud formation and rainfall. The Kingdom's vast geography is characterized by significant climatic diversity; while a hot, arid desert climate prevails across most of its territory, the southwestern highlands enjoy a more temperate climate and seasonal rainfall. Rainfall at this time of year is considered a significant event, known as "rain of goodness and blessing," as it contributes vitally to replenishing groundwater reservoirs and dams, supports the agricultural sector, revitalizes natural pastures upon which herders depend, and contributes to the growth of seasonal desert plants such as truffles.
Expected effects and warnings
Despite the significant benefits of rainfall, relevant authorities, such as the General Directorate of Civil Defense, warn of the potential dangers associated with heavy rain events. The greatest risk lies in the formation of flash floods in valleys and ravines, especially in mountainous and central regions. Therefore, citizens and residents are urged to stay away from floodplains and low-lying areas and to exercise caution while driving. Furthermore, strong winds and dust storms may affect those with respiratory conditions and, at times, disrupt land and air traffic.
Weather details and temperatures in major cities:
- Central region: The capital Riyadh and governorates such as Al-Kharj and Al-Majma’ah are experiencing moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures dropping to a high of around 30 degrees Celsius.
- Western Region: Thunderstorms are expected in Mecca and Taif, while partly cloudy weather will prevail in Jeddah and Yanbu with a chance of fog.
- Eastern Province: Dammam and Al-Ahsa will be affected by thunderstorms that may be accompanied by dust storms.
- Southern Highlands: The chance of moderate to heavy rainfall continues in Abha, Al-Baha and Najran, enhancing the moderate weather in those areas.
- Northern regions: Hail and Buraidah are experiencing thunderstorms, while the weather in Tabuk is partly cloudy with dust haze.
A detailed table of temperatures and weather phenomena:
| City | Maximum (°C) | Minimum (°C) | Humidity (%) | weather conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mecca | 37 | 26 | 45 | Thunderstorms / Strong winds |
| AL Madinah AL Munawwarah | 34 | 24 | 40 | Active winds / Dust storms |
| Riyadh | 30 | 20 | 90 | Moderate to heavy rain |
| Dammam | 28 | 22 | 85 | Thunderstorms / Dust storms |
| grandmother | 34 | 26 | 75 | overcast |
| Abha | 24 | 15 | 80 | Moderate to heavy rain |
| Hail | 27 | 17 | 100 | Thunderstorms / Fog |
| Buraydah | 26 | 19 | 95 | Moderate to heavy rain |
| Tabuk | 31 | 17 | 30 | Partly cloudy/dust haze |
| The courtyard | 23 | 16 | 80 | Moderate to heavy rain |
| Jazan | 34 | 30 | 80 | Thunderstorms / Active winds |
| Najran | 35 | 26 | 65 | Thunderstorms / Strong winds |
