Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) expects storm conditions in 10 regions through Saturday, with potential flash floods, hail and strong winds posing hazards for residents and coastal areas.
Forecasts call for moderate to heavy thunderstorms in Riyadh, the Eastern Province, Jazan, Mecca, Hail, Najran, Asir, Qassim, Al Baha and Medina. Al Jouf, Tabuk and the Northern Borders region are expected to get light to moderate rain.
Rain timing will vary by region. Jazan is forecast to see moderate to heavy rain across the five-day period, while most of Asir’s governorates face similar conditions, with the heaviest downpours expected Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday. Al Baha could also see heavier rainfall Saturday. In Jazan, several governorates are expected to see the most intense rain Tuesday and Wednesday, while Jazan city is forecast to have heavier periods Wednesday and Thursday.
In the Mecca region, the heaviest precipitation is expected Saturday. Jeddah and Rabigh are forecast to receive moderate to heavy rain Tuesday, with further rainfall possible Friday and Saturday. Medina city and several surrounding areas could face particularly heavy rain Friday and Saturday, while the Eastern Province’s strongest downpours are expected Tuesday and Wednesday.
The NCM said storms could trigger flash floods and hail. Strong downdraft winds may stir up dust and sand, reaching 60 km/h or more. Coastal locations could also see high waves, and funnel clouds or waterspouts may form. The centre urged residents to follow warnings and forecast updates on its website, through the Anwaa weather application and on its social media accounts.
The new forecast overlaps Tuesday, Nov. 10, with the final day of a five-day storm alert issued by the General Directorate of Civil Defence; EconoTimes previously covered the warning for heavy rain and flood risk through Nov. 10. The NCM’s preliminary outlook leaves open the possibility of rain in parts of the kingdom next week, with updated bulletins to follow as conditions change.
