Gulf News reported that Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence issued a five-day storm alert from Friday through Tuesday, Nov. 10, with rain expected across most regions and flash-flood hazards prompting safety calls.
The outlet said the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) forecast moderate to heavy rain in the Mecca region and nine others, including the Eastern Province, Hail, Jazan, Al Baha, Northern Borders, Qassim, Asir, Al Jouf and Medina. The outlook also included hail, strong downdrafts and blowing dust that could reduce visibility.
The forecast for Riyadh varied by area. Some districts were listed for heavier rain, hail, flash-flood risk and dust-raising winds, while Riyadh city and Al Kharj were expected to receive light to moderate rain, Gulf News reported.
Civil Defence urged residents to stay in safe places, keep clear of valleys and places where water collects, and stay away from floodwater rather than swim in it. The directorate warned that sudden rises in water levels could endanger people walking or driving and advised residents to monitor official weather notices and follow safety instructions.
The alert follows an earlier Saudi storm forecast that covered several of the same regions through Oct. 26. The current warning period ends Tuesday, Nov. 10.
