The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued warning of expected heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions across large parts of the Riyadh region. This warning comes as part of ongoing monitoring of the weather fluctuations affecting the Kingdom during this period, and relevant authorities have urged citizens and residents to exercise extreme caution.
Details of the rainfall situation in Riyadh
The weather report indicated that the rainy conditions, which will continue until 6:00 AM on Wednesday, will affect the capital, Riyadh, and several surrounding governorates and districts, including: Diriyah, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Muzahmiyah, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Al-Hariq, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, and Marat. These conditions are characterized by severe effects, including high-speed winds that may lead to near-zero horizontal visibility, as well as hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and strong thunderstorms.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These warnings are particularly important given the geographical nature of the Riyadh region, which includes numerous valleys and wadis. Such weather conditions typically coincide with winter and the rainy season in the Kingdom, when atmospheric instability is more likely. The "red alert" is the highest level of warning in the automated early warning system, signifying the need to take safety precautions and stay away from low-lying areas and water accumulations. This is something the General Directorate of Civil Defense consistently emphasizes to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Snow in Tabuk and a drop in temperatures
In related news, the National Center for Meteorology has issued a warning about a different weather pattern in the northern regions, with light snow expected in the Tabuk region today, Wednesday. This phenomenon is expected to begin at 1:00 PM and continue until 8:00 PM. The center indicated that it is continuously monitoring the chances of snowfall in the Tabuk and Hail highlands, anticipating a significant drop in temperatures that could fall below freezing, further intensifying the harsh winter conditions for which these regions are known at this time of year.
Recommendations and follow-up on developments
Weather experts and official authorities advise following continuous updates through official channels, such as the "Anwaa" app from the center, to avoid potential hazards while traveling. These weather conditions typically affect traffic on highways, requiring extreme caution and maintaining safe distances, especially given warnings of poor visibility and flash floods.
