The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced red alert for the Madinah region, warning of unstable weather conditions characterized by heavy rainfall. The conditions began on Sunday and are expected to continue until 11:00 PM. The center explained in its report that the weather system includes not only rain but also severe weather phenomena such as strong, high-speed winds, near-zero visibility, hail, flash floods, and thunderstorms.
Weather details for Mecca and the northern regions
In a related development, the holy city of Mecca was not spared from these weather fluctuations, as the National Center for Meteorology warned of light rain in Mecca expected to continue until 7:00 PM. The daily weather report also indicated that the chance of moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by hail and strong winds that could stir up dust and reduce horizontal visibility, remains high in parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Hail regions, with the effects extending to the northern parts of the Mecca region.
Red alert indications and the importance of the warning
The issuance of a "red alert" by the National Center for Meteorology is a significant indicator that necessitates the utmost caution. In the Kingdom's automated early warning system, the color red signifies severe weather phenomena, requiring residents to stay away from hazardous areas and adhere to the instructions of the relevant authorities. These warnings are particularly important in Medina due to its geographical features, including numerous valleys and ravines, making it susceptible to flash floods during heavy rainfall. This underscores the need for public awareness regarding avoiding areas prone to water accumulation and wadi beds.
Expected effects and safety measures
This rainy weather is expected to directly impact traffic within the city and on the highways connecting it to neighboring provinces due to reduced visibility and the risk of skidding. Such weather events typically prompt a mobilization of civil defense teams and service providers to ensure the safety of lives and property. Official authorities urge citizens, residents, and visitors to the Prophet's Mosque to stay updated on the latest weather conditions through official channels and to avoid going out unless absolutely necessary during the peak of the rain, to ensure everyone's safety amidst the unstable weather conditions affecting large parts of the Kingdom.
