Warning from the National Center for Meteorology
The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia issued an advanced weather alert on Thursday, warning of continued light to moderate rainfall across large parts of six major regions. The center explained in its report that this weather pattern is expected to persist until 11:00 PM, urging everyone to take precautions.
Effects associated with the rainy weather
According to the report, the rainfall will be accompanied by a range of weather phenomena requiring attention. In areas experiencing light rain, brisk winds are expected, potentially stirring up dust and reducing horizontal visibility, along with the possibility of thunderstorms. In areas experiencing moderate rainfall, the effects will be more severe, with wind speeds reaching high levels, leading to near-zero visibility, hail, and an increased risk of flash floods in valleys and ravines.
Affected regions and cities in detail
The alert covered six main regions, and included specific governorates and cities within each region, as follows:
- Makkah Region: Al-Ardiyat, Adham, Maysan, and Taif.
- Medina region: Al-Ula and Khaybar.
- Tabuk region: Al-Muazzam, and Tayma.
- Hail region: Al-Hait, Al-Shamli, Hail city, and Muwaqq.
- Asir region: Al-Harjah, Al-Rabou’ah, Al-Farsha, Sarat Abidah, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Al-Namas, Balqarn, and Tanomah.
- Al-Baha region: Al-Aqiq, Al-Qura, Al-Mandaq, Al-Baha city, Baljurashi, Bani Hassan, Al-Hajrah, Al-Makhwah, Far’ah Ghamid Al-Zanad, and Qalwah.
The climatic context and the importance of rainfall for the Kingdom
These rains are part of the typical climatic period in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the southwestern highlands such as Asir and Al-Baha, which enjoy a more temperate climate and abundant seasonal rainfall compared to the rest of the Kingdom's arid desert climate. These rains, known locally as the "Wasam" season, are vital to the local environment, significantly contributing to replenishing groundwater reservoirs, revitalizing vegetation and natural pastures, and supporting the agricultural sector upon which local residents depend. They also create stunning natural landscapes that attract domestic tourism.
The role of stakeholders and safety recommendations
The National Center of Meteorology continuously monitors weather phenomena and issues necessary alerts through its official channels. Based on these reports, the General Directorate of Civil Defense and other security agencies deploy their field teams and provide safety guidelines to citizens and residents. Authorities consistently emphasize the importance of staying away from floodplains and valleys during rainfall, exercising caution while driving on roads with reduced visibility or strong winds, and staying informed by following official sources to ensure everyone's safety.
