Saudi Arabia weather: Heavy rain and possible flash floods in the Jazan region
The Jazan region, located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, witnessed moderate to heavy rainfall this evening, concentrated in several of its governorates and districts. The rainfall affected the governorates of Fifa, Al-Ardah, and Ahad Al-Masarihah, as well as other areas within their jurisdiction, leading to flash floods in some valleys and ravines.
This rainfall coincides with prior warnings issued by the National Center for Meteorology in the Kingdom. The center had indicated in its periodic reports that conditions were favorable for thunderstorms ranging from moderate to heavy, potentially leading to flash floods and accompanied by hail and strong winds that could stir up dust and sand. The warnings were not limited to the Jazan region alone, but also included parts of other regions such as Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, reflecting the widespread impact of unstable weather conditions across the Kingdom.
The climatic context of the Jazan region
The Jazan region possesses unique climatic characteristics that distinguish it from other regions of the Kingdom. Influenced by monsoon winds from the Indian Ocean, it receives higher than the Saudi average annual rainfall, particularly during the summer and autumn seasons. This climate supports biodiversity and dense vegetation in the mountainous highlands, such as the Fifa Mountains, making it a vital food basket for the Kingdom thanks to its fertile land and relatively abundant water resources.
Expected effects and precautionary measures
Despite the significant benefits of these rains in replenishing groundwater, filling dams, and supporting the agricultural sector, they also carry potential risks. The most prominent of these risks is the formation of flash floods that could inundate villages and residential areas located in wadi beds. In response to these warnings, the relevant authorities, primarily the Civil Defense Directorate, have raised their level of preparedness to deal with any potential emergency. The Directorate continues to issue awareness messages to citizens and residents, emphasizing the need to stay away from wadi beds and flood channels, to exercise caution while driving on roads during rainfall, and to follow weather forecasts issued by official authorities.
