The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast moderate to heavy thunderstorms accompanied by hail and flash flood risks across several regions of Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Residents in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah are advised to remain cautious as severe weather conditions, gusty winds, and reduced visibility may affect daily activities.
Heavy Rain and Flash Flood Risk in Four Saudi Regions
According to the National Center for Meteorology, moderate to heavy thunderstorms are expected to impact parts of the following regions:
- Jazan
- Asir
- Al-Baha
- Makkah
The weather system may bring heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and flash floods in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to avoid flood-prone locations and follow official weather updates throughout the day.
Dust-Stirring Winds Expected Across Several Regions
Strong and dust-stirring winds are also forecast to affect multiple parts of the Kingdom, including:
- Makkah Region
- Eastern Province
- Riyadh Region
- Madinah Region
These conditions could lead to reduced horizontal visibility, particularly in open and desert areas. Motorists are encouraged to drive carefully and stay informed about changing weather conditions.
Red Sea Marine Weather Forecast
Over the Red Sea, northwesterly to westerly winds are expected across the northern and central parts, while southwesterly to northwesterly winds will prevail over the southern areas at speeds ranging between 15 and 50 km/h.
- Wind Speed: 15–50 km/h
- Wave Height: 0.5 meters to more than 2 meters
- Sea Conditions: Calm to choppy
Fishermen, boat operators, and beach visitors are advised to exercise caution due to fluctuating sea conditions.
Arabian Gulf Weather Conditions
In the Arabian Gulf, northwesterly to northeasterly winds are expected across the northern and central parts at speeds of 12–30 km/h. During the evening hours, winds are forecast to shift to southeasterly and southwesterly directions at speeds ranging from 5–15 km/h.
Across the southern Gulf, southwesterly to northwesterly winds at speeds of 10–50 km/h are expected before shifting in the evening to northerly and northeasterly winds.
- Wave Height: 0.5 meters to more than 2 meters
- Sea Conditions: Calm to choppy
Residents Urged to Follow Weather Advisories
The National Center for Meteorology continues to monitor weather developments across Saudi Arabia and urges residents to remain vigilant during periods of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Individuals are encouraged to avoid valleys, flooded areas, and locations susceptible to flash floods while adhering to safety instructions issued by the relevant authorities.
Safety Tips During Thunderstorms and Flash Floods
- Avoid crossing flooded roads and valleys.
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms whenever possible.
- Secure outdoor objects that may be affected by strong winds.
- Follow official weather alerts issued by Saudi authorities.
- Exercise caution while driving during periods of reduced visibility.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia is expected to experience unstable weather conditions across several regions, including heavy thunderstorms, hail, flash floods, and strong winds. Residents are advised to remain alert, follow weather advisories issued by the National Center for Meteorology, and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
