Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence has issued a weather warning as thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecast across several regions through Saturday, with a risk of flash floods, hail, strong winds and dust-stirring conditions.
Saudi Arabia Weather Alert Through Saturday
The General Directorate of Civil Defence has urged residents and visitors to exercise caution as unstable weather conditions are expected to affect several parts of the Kingdom.
The public has been advised to remain in safe places, avoid valleys and areas vulnerable to flooding, and refrain from swimming in floodwaters.
Residents are also urged to follow safety instructions and weather updates issued by Saudi authorities through official media and social media platforms.
Heavy Rain and Flash Flood Risk in Makkah Region
The Makkah region is expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, with the weather potentially causing flash floods in vulnerable areas.
The forecast also includes the possibility of hail and strong downdrafts that could stir up dust and sand, potentially reducing visibility on roads.
Areas Affected in Makkah
Areas expected to experience the adverse weather conditions include:
- Makkah
- Al Kamil
- Al Jumum
- Bahrah
- Al Lith
- Al Qunfudhah
- Taif
- Maysan
- Adham
- Al Ardiyat
Residents in these areas should take extra precautions during periods of heavy rain and avoid locations where water can accumulate or flash floods may occur.
Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain in Madinah, Jazan, Asir and Al Baha
Moderate to heavy rainfall is also forecast across the Madinah, Jazan, Asir and Al Baha regions.
Thunderstorms in these areas may be accompanied by flash floods, hail and strong winds capable of stirring up dust and sand.
Saudi Arabia has experienced similar weather alerts in recent months. Previous forecasts have warned of heavy thunderstorms, hail and flash-flood risks across Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and Makkah.
Arab Local also previously reported on heavy rain and thunderstorms affecting Jazan and Asir through Saturday.
Light to Moderate Rain Expected in Najran
The Najran region is expected to receive light to moderate rainfall during the forecast period.
Although rainfall may be lighter than in some other regions, residents should continue monitoring official weather updates and exercise caution when traveling during periods of reduced visibility or wet roads.
Saudi Civil Defence Safety Instructions
The Civil Defence has urged the public to take precautions during the expected thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
- Stay in safe places during severe weather.
- Avoid valleys, low-lying areas and locations vulnerable to flash floods.
- Do not attempt to swim in floodwaters.
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or areas with flowing water.
- Exercise caution when driving during heavy rainfall and reduced visibility.
- Follow official weather warnings and safety instructions issued by Saudi authorities.
Similar Civil Defence warnings have previously advised residents to avoid valleys and flood-prone areas and to follow official weather updates during periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Flash Flood Risk During Heavy Rain
Heavy rainfall can quickly produce flash floods, particularly in valleys, low-lying areas and locations where water accumulates rapidly.
Residents should avoid attempting to cross flooded roads or flowing water, as changing water levels and strong currents can create dangerous conditions for pedestrians and motorists.
Drivers should also allow extra travel time and exercise caution when rain, dust and strong winds reduce visibility.
Saudi Arabia Weather Forecast: Regions at a Glance
| Region | Expected Conditions |
|---|---|
| Makkah | Moderate to heavy rain, flash-flood risk, hail and strong downdrafts |
| Madinah | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Jazan | Moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms and possible flash floods |
| Asir | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Al Baha | Moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Najran | Light to moderate rain |
Residents Urged to Monitor Official Weather Updates
Weather conditions can change rapidly during periods of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor the latest alerts issued by the National Center for Meteorology and the General Directorate of Civil Defence.
Previous Saudi weather alerts have also highlighted the possibility of flash floods, hail, strong winds and dust during periods of heavy thunderstorms.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is expected to experience thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rainfall across several regions through Saturday, with flash floods, hail and strong winds possible in affected areas. Civil Defence has urged residents to stay in safe places, avoid valleys and flood-prone locations, and follow official safety instructions throughout the weather alert period.
