Saudi Civil Defense Warns of Thunderstorms, Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flood Risk Through Tuesday

RIYADH: The Saudi General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged the public to exercise heightened caution as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flash flood risks are expected to persist across much of the Kingdom through Tuesday. Residents have been advised to remain in safe locations, avoid valleys and flood-prone areas, and refrain from swimming in rainwater accumulations. Authorities stressed the importance of adhering to safety guidance issued via official channels.

According to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), moderate to heavy thunderstorms are forecast across wide areas, including Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan. These conditions are expected to trigger flash floods, with accompanying hail showers and strong downdrafts. The NCM also warned of active winds stirring dust and sand in parts of these regions, extending to Tabuk, which is likely to experience lighter rainfall but continued wind activity. Reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions are anticipated in exposed areas.

Civil Defense highlighted that Makkah and Riyadh regions face a heightened risk of intense rainfall events, with similar weather patterns affecting much of the Kingdom. Light to moderate rain was already recorded in Jubail and Jubail Industrial City, signaling the broader system influencing eastern regions.

The NCM has said the prevailing conditions are linked to a seasonal transition period characterized by atmospheric instability. Such weather patterns are typical during spring in the Arabian Peninsula, when shifting air masses and increased humidity create favorable conditions for thunderstorms, particularly over western highlands and central regions. These systems can produce localized but intense rainfall, increasing the likelihood of flash flooding in low-lying and desert areas. (With SPA)