Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence has urged residents to exercise caution as thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecast across most regions of the Kingdom through Friday, with risks of flash floods, hail, strong winds and dust storms.
Saudi Civil Defence Issues Thunderstorm and Heavy Rain Warning
The General Directorate of Civil Defence has called on residents and visitors to take precautions as unstable weather conditions are expected to affect large parts of Saudi Arabia.
The public has been advised to remain in safe areas, stay away from valleys and locations prone to flooding, and avoid swimming in floodwaters or other dangerous areas.
Residents have also been urged to follow safety instructions and monitor the latest weather warnings issued by Saudi authorities through official media and social media channels.
Similar recent weather alerts have warned of heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail and flash-flood risks across several regions of the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia’s recent heavy rain and flash-flood warning also highlighted the need to avoid valleys and flood-prone areas.
Heavy Rain and Flash Flood Risk in Makkah Region
The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across parts of the Makkah region, with conditions that could trigger flash floods, hail and dust-stirring winds.
Areas Affected by Rain in Makkah
The areas expected to experience the adverse weather conditions include:
- Makkah
- Al Kamil
- Al Jumum
- Bahrah
- Taif
- Maysan
- Adham
- Al Ardiyat
Light to moderate rain is also forecast for Al Lith and Al Qunfudhah.
Residents in these areas should exercise extra caution during periods of heavy rainfall and avoid valleys, low-lying locations and places where floodwater can accumulate.
Thunderstorms and Rain Forecast Across Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and Madinah
Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected across Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and Madinah. Thunderstorms in these regions may be accompanied by flash floods, hail and strong winds capable of stirring up dust and sand.
Recent NCM forecasts have similarly highlighted heavy rain and thunderstorms in Jazan and Asir, with residents advised to monitor weather updates and take precautions when traveling through mountainous areas and valleys. The latest Saudi weather forecast for Jazan and Asir provides additional information on rainfall and safety precautions.
Light to Moderate Rain Expected in Other Saudi Regions
Hail, Tabuk, Al Jouf and the Northern Borders regions are also forecast to receive light to moderate rainfall.
Although rainfall may be less intense in these areas, residents and motorists should remain alert to changing weather conditions, wet roads and reduced visibility.
Saudi Civil Defence Safety Instructions During Heavy Rain
Saudi Civil Defence has urged residents and visitors to follow precautionary measures during thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
- Stay in safe places during severe weather conditions.
- Avoid valleys, low-lying areas and locations vulnerable to flash floods.
- Do not attempt to swim in floodwater.
- Do not cross flooded roads or areas with flowing water.
- Exercise caution when driving during heavy rain and reduced visibility.
- Stay away from areas where flash floods may occur.
- Follow the latest NCM weather alerts and Civil Defence instructions.
- Check weather conditions before traveling, particularly on long-distance journeys.
Heavy rainfall can cause flash floods rapidly, especially in valleys and low-lying areas. Drivers should avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or moving water, as water levels and currents can change quickly.
Saudi Arabia Weather Forecast: Regions at a Glance
| Region | Expected Weather Conditions |
|---|---|
| Makkah | Moderate to heavy rain, flash-flood risk, hail and dust-stirring winds |
| Jazan | Moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail and possible flash floods |
| Asir | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Al Baha | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Madinah | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Hail | Light to moderate rain |
| Tabuk | Light to moderate rain |
| Al Jouf | Light to moderate rain |
| Northern Borders | Light to moderate rain |
Residents Urged to Monitor NCM Weather Alerts
Weather conditions can change quickly during periods of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Residents and visitors in affected parts of Saudi Arabia should continue monitoring updates from the National Center for Meteorology and the General Directorate of Civil Defence.
Recent Saudi weather alerts have also warned of heavy rainfall, flash floods, hail and strong winds across Makkah, Al Baha, Asir, Jazan and Madinah. Saudi Arabia’s latest NCM weather alerts provide further details on severe weather risks and regional warnings.
Stay Safe During Thunderstorms and Flash Floods
Residents should avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities. Motorists should exercise particular caution when heavy rain, dust and strong winds reduce visibility or cause water to accumulate on roads.
Following official weather alerts and avoiding valleys, flood-prone areas and flowing water can help reduce the risks associated with thunderstorms and flash floods.
