The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced weather alert today for the Al-Baha region, warning of severe weather fluctuations that could disrupt daily life. The center explained in its report that the region will experience moderate to heavy rainfall, urging citizens and residents to take precautions.
The meteorological report indicated that the weather conditions would not be limited to rain, but would also include significant surface wind activity that could reach storm force, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility, especially on highways and in open areas. The forecast also included hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and strong thunderstorms.
Areas affected by the weather conditions
According to a statement from the National Center for Meteorology, the rainy weather includes the city of Al-Baha itself, and extends to cover a large number of its governorates and affiliated centers, namely:
- Al-Aqiq Governorate
- villages
- Al-Mandaq
- Baljurashi
- Bani Hassan
- Al-Makhwah
- Qalwa
- The room
- trigger sheath
The center indicated that this unstable weather condition will continue - God willing - until 9 pm today, which requires continuous monitoring of weather updates.
The geographical nature of the courtyard and the impact of rainfall
Weather warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Al-Baha region, which lies within the Sarawat Mountains. The rugged mountainous terrain and steep slopes make the area highly susceptible to the rapid formation of flash floods during heavy rainfall. Al-Baha is a significant tourist and agricultural region in the Kingdom, and while these seasonal rains typically irrigate terraced fields and replenish groundwater reserves, their intensity can pose a danger to those venturing into valleys and hiking trails.
Safety and prevention guidelines
Under these weather conditions, the relevant authorities, primarily the General Directorate of Civil Defense, emphasize the importance of adhering to safety instructions. Everyone is advised to stay away from floodplains and wadi beds, and not to attempt to cross wadis while they are flowing, regardless of the water level, as flash floods in mountainous areas can be deceptive and rapid. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution while driving due to reduced visibility and the possibility of vehicles skidding as a result of the rain and hail.
This warning comes as part of the ongoing efforts of the National Center for Meteorology to accurately monitor and track weather phenomena, with the aim of protecting lives and property, and enhancing community awareness of how to deal with the various rainy conditions witnessed in the regions of the Kingdom.
