The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued the Madinah , warning of severe weather fluctuations including heavy rainfall that may lead to flash floods, accompanied by weather phenomena that require the utmost caution and vigilance.
Weather details and affected cities
According to the center's report, the rainy weather system will begin at 2:00 AM and continue until 7:00 PM, with moderate to heavy rainfall expected in the region. The center identified the areas most affected as the governorates of Al-Ais, Badr, Al-Rais, and Yanbu . The report indicated that the rain will be accompanied by strong surface winds, leading to near-zero horizontal visibility, as well as hail and powerful thunderstorms.
The warning also included other areas that will experience moderate to heavy rainfall at times, namely: Medina (the main city), and the governorates of Al-Ula, Khaybar, Al-Hanakiya, Al-Mahd, and Wadi Al-Fara. These areas will experience the same weather conditions at the same time, with expectations of flash floods in valleys and streams.
The importance of warnings and the context of public safety
These warnings are of paramount importance given the geographical nature of the Madinah region, which is characterized by numerous large valleys and ravines that can fill up very quickly during heavy rainfall, posing a real risk of flash floods. The relevant authorities, including the Civil Defense, are working in coordination with the National Center for Meteorology to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.
In this context, the center renewed its call for everyone to adhere to safety instructions, most importantly staying away from flood channels and valley bottoms, avoiding low-lying areas and water pools, not risking crossing valleys no matter how high the water level is, and following the continuous updates through the official channels and social media of the center.
Climate change and the accuracy of weather monitoring
This alert comes as part of the National Center for Meteorology's ongoing efforts to monitor seasonal weather changes across the Kingdom. These weather patterns are part of the rainy seasons experienced in various regions of the Kingdom, requiring a robust monitoring and early warning infrastructure. These modern technologies contribute to mitigating risks and protecting lives and property by giving relevant authorities and the public ample time to prepare and take necessary precautions.
