Heavy Storms Forecast Across Mecca and Six Other Regions as Residents Warned Against Entering Flooded Valleys.
Mecca: Saudi Arabia has issued severe weather warnings for seven regions as heavy thunderstorms, strong winds and flash floods threaten parts of the kingdom, with unstable conditions expected to continue until Wednesday, October 21.
The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) forecast moderate to heavy thunderstorms on Saturday, October 17, warning that intense downpours could cause flash flooding in several locations.
The storms may also bring hail and powerful winds capable of raising dust and sand, potentially reducing horizontal visibility to near-zero levels.
The regions expected to experience the most severe conditions include Mecca, Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Hail, Al Jouf and the Northern Borders.
Meanwhile, light to moderate rainfall is anticipated in parts of Medina, Tabuk and the Eastern Province.
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defence has urged residents and visitors to take necessary precautions, remain in secure locations and stay away from valleys, floodwater channels and areas prone to water accumulation.
Authorities have also warned the public against swimming in floodwaters and advised everyone to follow official safety guidance shared through media outlets and social media channels.
Heavy thunderstorms and flash flood warnings for Mecca
The NCM warned that several parts of the Mecca region could experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms, accompanied by hail, strong downward winds and blowing dust.
Heavy rainfall could also trigger sudden flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas and valleys.
The forecast covers Mecca city and several surrounding governorates, including Al Kamil, Al Jumum, Bahrah, Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al Ardiyat, Al Lith and Al Qunfudhah.
However, the intensity of rainfall is expected to differ across these locations.
The meteorological authority has issued red weather alerts for heavy rain in several areas, including Taif and Al Ardiyat, indicating the potential for particularly severe conditions.
Similar weather is forecast across Jazan, Asir and Al Baha, where heavy downpours could be accompanied by hailstorms, flash flooding and strong winds.
Blowing dust and sand may also cause a significant deterioration in visibility, creating hazardous conditions for motorists.
The alerts come amid an extended period of unstable weather affecting large parts of Saudi Arabia, with thunderstorms likely to persist in several regions over the coming days.
Fog expected to reduce visibility overnight
In addition to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, the NCM has warned of possible fog formation during nighttime and early morning hours.
Coastal areas of Mecca, Medina and the Eastern Province are among the locations where fog could develop.
The combination of fog, rainfall and airborne dust may further restrict visibility, particularly along roads affected by the unsettled weather.
Motorists have been advised to remain alert to changing conditions and follow official weather warnings.
Strong winds and rough seas forecast in the Red Sea
The adverse weather is also expected to affect maritime conditions, particularly in the southern Red Sea.
According to the NCM, wind speeds could exceed 50 kilometres per hour during thunderstorms, resulting in rougher seas and higher waves.
Wave heights are forecast to range between 0.5 metres and 1.5 metres under normal conditions, increasing to more than two metres in areas experiencing thunderstorm activity.
The deteriorating conditions could pose risks to small boats, fishing vessels and other maritime operations, especially during periods of intense rainfall and strong winds.
In comparison, conditions in the Arabian Gulf are expected to remain relatively calmer, with wave heights generally ranging from 0.5 metres to one metre.
Civil Defence urges public to avoid flooded valleys
Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence authorities have renewed their warning against entering flooded valleys, crossing waterlogged roads or approaching locations where rainwater has accumulated.
Residents and visitors have been urged to remain in safe areas and avoid unnecessary exposure to severe weather conditions.
Officials also stressed the importance of monitoring updates from the National Centre for Meteorology and complying with emergency instructions issued by the relevant authorities.
The safety advisory will remain particularly important as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and strong winds continue to affect several parts of the kingdom over the coming days.
