The Al-Baha region and large parts of its governorates witnessed scattered rainfall today, ranging from light to moderate, accompanied by active thunderstorms that illuminated the region's skies. The rain was concentrated on Al-Baha city and its suburbs, as well as the governorates of Al-Aqiq, Baljurashi, Al-Mandaq, Al-Qura, and Bani Hassan, and their affiliated administrative centers, also encompassing a number of the region's renowned natural parks.
The climatic context of the Al-Baha region
The Al-Baha region, located within the Sarawat Mountains in southwestern Saudi Arabia, is known for its unique geography, making it a destination for seasonal rainfall. Its high altitude and mountainous terrain contribute to cloud formation and more frequent rainfall compared to many other regions of the Kingdom. This rainfall occurs during the spring rainy season, which affects the southwestern highlands, where cumulonimbus clouds form as a result of the convergence of different air masses, sometimes leading to heavy rainfall.
The importance of rainfall and its impact on the region
These rains are of vital importance to the Al-Baha region on several levels. Environmentally and agriculturally, the rainfall has led to the flow of several valleys and streams, contributing to the replenishment of groundwater reservoirs and the filling of dams. This is crucial for supporting the region's renowned agriculture, such as the cultivation of pomegranates, apricots, and peaches. Furthermore, these rains irrigate the land and promote vegetation growth, enhancing the region's stunning natural beauty and transforming its mountains and forests into a breathtaking green landscape, most notably the famous Raghadan Forest.
From a tourism perspective, this rainy weather is a major draw for domestic tourism, as visitors flock from all over the Kingdom to enjoy the mild weather and the enchanting scenery left behind by the rain. This influx of tourists boosts the local economy by increasing demand for hotels, resorts, restaurants, and local markets.
Official warnings and alerts
Despite these favorable conditions, the National Center of Meteorology typically issues advanced warnings about such weather events, cautioning against accompanying weather fluctuations such as strong surface winds that may stir up dust and sand, reduce horizontal visibility, and the possibility of hail. The Civil Defense Directorate in the region also emphasizes the need for caution, urging people to stay away from valleys and floodplains, and avoid low-lying areas during rainfall to protect lives and property.
