Saudi Arabia Weather Alert: Thunderstorms, Heavy Rain, and Flood Risks

Saudi Arabia is preparing for a week of unstable weather conditions. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has warned that thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds will affect many regions of the Kingdom between September 7 and September 11.

The forecast has raised concerns about flash floods in valleys, reduced visibility due to dust, and rising waves in coastal areas. Authorities have urged the public to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and avoid risky areas during the storms.

A Week of Stormy Weather Ahead

The NCM explained that the weather will change from place to place and from day to day. Some areas will see torrential rain and hailstorms, while others will experience only light showers.

The most affected regions are expected to be Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, and Taif, where heavy rain and flooding are likely. Other regions such as Riyadh, Medina, Najran, and the Eastern Province will see moderate rainfall.

Wind gusts could reach 60 km/h, raising dust and reducing visibility on highways and in open desert areas. Travelers and drivers are advised to take extra care.

Jazan: Torrential Rains in Mountain Districts

The Jazan region is set to face some of the heaviest rainfall. Districts such as Al Reith, Huroob, Fayfa, and Al Harth are forecast to see strong storms.

In Jizan city, Farasan, Samtah, Abu Arish, and Sabya, moderate to heavy showers will continue through the week. These areas are prone to flash floods in wadis, which can fill quickly with stormwater.

Authorities are warning residents not to cross flooded valleys and to remain indoors when storms are at their peak.

Asir: Storms in Abha and Khamis Mushait

In the Asir region, cities like Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Mahayel Asir will also see severe thunderstorms. Mountain roads may become dangerous because of flooding, rockfalls, or landslides.

Nearby districts such as Bisha may only receive lighter showers. But officials are still urging caution, as even moderate rainfall can cause dangerous conditions in valleys and steep terrain.

Al Baha: Heavy Rain Across Key Districts

The Al Baha Province, including Baljurashi, Al-Mandaq, and Bani Hasan, is expected to be hit by heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Because the region is mountainous, rainwater often flows quickly into valleys, making flash floods more likely. Travel on mountain routes during storms could also become risky.

Taif and Makkah: Showers in Western Regions

The Taif region in Makkah Province will face heavy storms, with strong rain and occasional hail. The surrounding highlands are at risk of flooding in valleys.

Makkah city and nearby areas may see moderate rain. While this may help cool the hot weather, it could also cause traffic delays, slippery roads, and drainage problems in some areas.

Riyadh: Capital to See Moderate Rain

The capital city, Riyadh along with Al Kharj, Al Aflaj, and Dawadmi, is forecast to receive moderate showers.

Though the rain may not be very heavy, it can still cause traffic slowdowns, slippery roads, and temporary flooding in low areas. With Riyadh’s growing population and busy roads, even small weather disruptions can have a wide impact.

Medina, Najran, and Eastern Province: Intermittent Showers

The Medina region is expected to see light to moderate rain over the coming days. In Najran, near the Yemeni border, rainfall will also vary from light to moderate.

The Eastern Province, home to major cities and Gulf coast areas, may see occasional rain and thunderstorms. Coastal areas could face rising waves and strong winds, creating dangerous conditions for fishermen and small boats.

Civil Defense Safety Guidelines

The Civil Defense has issued a clear set of warnings for residents:

• Stay away from valleys and low-lying areas where floods may happen.
• Avoid swimming in flooded wadis or rivers.
• Remain indoors during severe thunderstorms to avoid risks from lightning or falling objects.
• Secure loose items outdoors that could be blown away by strong winds.
• Follow official updates through NCM platforms and the “Ajwā’ukum” app for real-time alerts.

These safety steps are important because flash floods in Saudi Arabia can happen suddenly and are often deadly.

Wind and Dust Storm Risks

Along with rain, strong winds up to 60 km/h are expected. These winds can lift large amounts of dust, creating dust storms that reduce visibility to dangerous levels.

Drivers are advised to slow down, use headlights during storms, and avoid long travel when visibility is poor. Air travel may also face delays during periods of high winds.

Technology and Real-Time Alerts

Saudi Arabia has made big investments in modern weather technology. The NCM uses advanced radar systems and mobile applications to give early warnings.

The “Ajwā’ukum” app provides real-time updates about rainfall, wind speeds, and storm movements. Through SMS alerts and social media, the public receives quick notifications, which help people make safer choices.

Impact on Agriculture and Daily Life

The storms will also affect agriculture, transport, and local businesses. In farming regions such as Jazan and Asir, heavy rain may damage crops or disrupt harvest schedules.

In cities, flooding can damage cars, delay shipments, and block traffic. Construction work may also slow down due to unsafe conditions.

Local businesses are being encouraged to prepare for possible delays and to keep safety a top priority during the week.

Tourism and Pilgrimage Concerns

Saudi Arabia’s popular summer spots like Taif and Abha may see reduced tourist activity during the storms. Outdoor events and mountain sightseeing trips are likely to be canceled or delayed.

In Makkah, moderate showers could affect pilgrims and worshippers, though authorities are expected to manage the situation by giving safety instructions at holy sites.

Public Preparedness

The Civil Defense has stressed that families should be prepared for emergencies. People are advised to:

• Keep emergency kits at home.
• Store important documents in safe, waterproof places.
• Stay updated on official instructions.
• Avoid unnecessary travel during bad weather.

By being prepared, residents can reduce risks to themselves and their families.

Final Outlook

From September 7 to September 11, Saudi Arabia will face days of unstable weather with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and flash flood threats.

The southwestern provinces of Jazan, Asir, and Al Baha are most at risk, while cities like Riyadh, Medina, and Najran will see lighter rain.

The Civil Defense and the National Center of Meteorology continue to call for caution. By following safety measures and paying attention to official updates, residents can protect themselves and reduce risks during this stormy week.