The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued advanced warnings on Friday regarding the expected weather conditions in the Jazan and Al-Baha regions, warning of varying intensities of rain that may be thundery, accompanied by active winds and multiple weather effects during the coming hours.
Weather details in the Jazan region
The center warned of light to moderate rainfall in the Jazan region, accompanied by active winds that may reach speeds causing dust storms and significantly reducing horizontal visibility. The report indicated that this weather pattern includes the possibility of thunderstorms. The affected areas include the governorates of: Baysh, Al-Darb, Sabya, Damad, Samtah, Al-Tuwal, Abu Arish, Ahad Al-Masarihah, Al-Harath, Al-Dayer Bani Malik, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, Harub, as well as Farasan Island and the Al-Fatihah center. The center explained that this weather pattern is expected to continue, God willing, until 7:00 PM today.
Similar warnings for the Al-Baha region
In a separate alert, the National Center for Meteorology warned residents of the Al-Baha region of similar weather fluctuations, including expected thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and reduced horizontal visibility. The alert covers Al-Baha city and the governorates of Al-Aqiq, Baljurashi, Al-Qura, Bani Hassan, Al-Mandaq, Al-Makhwah, Qalwah, Al-Hajrah, and Ghamid Al-Zanad, as well as surrounding areas. According to the center, this weather pattern is expected to continue until 8:00 PM.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
These warnings come within the context of the typical climatic pattern of the southwestern regions of the Kingdom, which are affected during certain periods of the year by humid monsoon winds originating from the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The mountainous terrain of the region, particularly in the Sarawat Mountains, plays a crucial role in lifting and condensing these humid air masses, leading to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and rainfall. This rainfall is vital for replenishing water resources and supporting the agricultural sector for which these regions are renowned, but it also poses a risk of flash floods in valleys and ravines.
Expected effects and calls for caution
These weather conditions have direct impacts on public safety and daily life. Strong winds may affect vehicle stability on highways, while reduced visibility increases the risk of traffic accidents. Thunderstorms also pose a danger to individuals in open areas. Based on these warnings, the General Directorate of Civil Defense and relevant authorities urge citizens and residents to exercise caution, stay away from valleys and floodplains, avoid low-lying areas, and follow the continuous updates from the National Center of Meteorology to ensure their safety.
