Saudi Arabia weather: Thunderstorms expected in Riyadh and the Eastern Province; weather warnings issued
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued weather conditions for today, Thursday, indicating that large parts of the Riyadh and Eastern regions will be affected by weather fluctuations ranging from moderate to heavy rain, accompanied by weather phenomena that require caution and vigilance.
Weather details for the Riyadh region
According to the weather report, the Riyadh region is experiencing moderate rainfall starting at 2:00 AM and continuing until 11:00 AM. This warning includes a large number of governorates and centers, namely: Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dhurma, Marat, Dawadmi, Afif, Zulfi, Ghat, Majmaah, and Shaqra .
The situation is not limited to rainfall only, but the center warned of accompanying effects that may pose a risk to public safety, represented by high-speed wind activity that leads to stirring up dust and sand, near-zero horizontal visibility, in addition to hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and thunderstorms.
Rainfall conditions in the Eastern Province
Jubail Governorate is experiencing light rain starting at 2:00 PM and continuing until 9:00 PM, accompanied by reduced visibility and gusty winds.
In contrast, the governorates of Khafji, Nairyah, Qaryat Al-Ulya, and Hafr Al-Batin a more severe weather system with moderate rainfall starting as early as 2:00 AM and continuing until 11:00 AM. This system is accompanied by strong winds, hail, and a high probability of flash floods, necessitating caution when driving on the highways connecting these governorates.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These weather fluctuations occur within the context of seasonal rain patterns in Saudi Arabia during seasonal transitions. The Arabian Peninsula is affected by low-pressure systems originating from the north or by the extension of humid thermal lows, leading to atmospheric instability. While these rains are crucial for the local environment, contributing to soil irrigation and replenishing groundwater reserves, their intensity over short periods can lead to flash floods.
Public safety guidelines
Due to the anticipated effects of downdrafts and flash floods, relevant authorities, including Civil Defense, consistently emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during such weather conditions. It is strongly advised to stay away from wadis and floodplains, and not to attempt to cross wadis while they are flowing, regardless of how low the water level may appear. Drivers are also advised to exercise extreme caution due to reduced visibility caused by dust or heavy rainfall, and to secure any loose objects on residential buildings to mitigate the impact of strong winds.
