The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced weather alert on Thursday, warning of light to moderate rain, occasionally thundery, accompanied by active to strong winds in scattered areas of four major regions. These weather fluctuations are typical of the transitional period the Kingdom experiences between winter and summer, which is often characterized by atmospheric instability.
Associated effects and geographical distribution
According to the center's report, the effects of this weather system are not limited to rainfall, but also include strong surface winds that could lead to near-zero horizontal visibility due to dust and sandstorms, especially on highways and in open areas. The report also warned of the possibility of hail, flash floods in valleys and ravines, and thunderstorm activity. The affected areas include Mecca, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan, with details as follows:
- Makkah Region: The alerts include the governorates of Taif, Adham, Maysan, Al-Ardiyat, Al-Qunfudhah, Al-Lith, in addition to Al-Khurmah, Al-Muwayh, Turbah, and Ranyah.
- Al-Baha region: It is expected that the governorates of Al-Hujrah, Al-Makhwah, Far’ah Ghamid Al-Zanad, Qalwah, in addition to the city of Al-Baha and the governorates of Al-Aqiq, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Baljurashi, and Bani Hassan will be affected.
- Asir region: The situation extends to include Al Majardah, Bariq, Rijal Alma, Mahayil, Al Namas, Balqarn, Tanomah, and Ahad Rafidah, as well as Al Harjah, Al Rabua, Al Farsha, Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al Janoub, reaching Abha and Khamis Mushait.
- Jazan region: The alerts include the governorates of Al-Harth, Al-Dayer, Al-Raith, Al-Ardah, Al-Aydabi, Fifa, and Haroub.
Climate context and the importance of warnings
The southwestern regions of the Kingdom, particularly the mountainous highlands of Asir, Al-Baha, and Jazan, are known for their complex topography, which contributes to the frequent formation of cumulonimbus clouds during certain times of the year. These warnings are of paramount importance locally, with relevant authorities, primarily the General Directorate of Civil Defense, urging 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 for Meteorology. Flash floods in dry valleys pose a significant threat to life and property, necessitating strict adherence to safety guidelines. Regionally, these phenomena are part of broader climatic patterns affecting the Arabian Peninsula, and studying them contributes to improving weather forecasting models and enhancing preparedness for potential natural disasters.
