Saudi Arabia weather alert: Heavy rains, strong winds, flood risks until Thursday

Dubai: The Saudi National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has forecasted that heavy rains will continue to affect various regions of Saudi Arabia until Thursday, February 20. 

According to the NCM, the weather conditions include rainfall in Riyadh, Ha'il, Al Qassim, Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Mecca, and Medina.

The forecast indicates light to moderate rain accompanied by active winds stirring dust and sand, with potential flash floods and hail in Mecca region, impacting the governorates of Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al Ardiyat, Al Muwayh, Khurma, Raniyah, Turubah, the holy capital, Bahrah, Al Jumum, Khulays, and Al Kamil.

Most governorates in Al Baha are also expected to experience light to moderate rain until Tuesday, while Riyadh, Al Qassim, Ha'il, Najran, Eastern Province, Medina, Northern Borders, and Al Jawf will see similar weather conditions with active, high-speed winds causing dust and sandstorms.

The NCM has urged the public to follow its communication channels for updates on weather conditions and affected areas, advising adherence to instructions from relevant authorities.

In a separate report, the center warned of strong winds reaching speeds of 40-49 km/h, affecting Jeddah, Shuaiba, and Al Leith, which could cause reduced visibility and rough seas, impacting maritime navigation. The warning for these areas is in effect from 9am to 11pm today.

The meteorological office also issued specific alerts for other regions, including Jazan, where light rains and active winds are expected from 2:00 AM to 8:00 PM today.

Additionally, parts of Mecca, including Jeddah, are forecasted to experience winds and rains from 1pm to 9pm, while Riyadh, including areas such as Silel and Wadi Al Dawasir, may experience thunderstorms from 3pm to 11:00pm.

The center called on everyone to exercise caution while driving, avoid flood-prone areas, and keep updated with information from official sources to ensure safety.