Unseasonal rain, hail sweep across southern Saudi Arabia, trigger flood alerts

Dubai: Scattered rains and intense thunderstorms lashed parts of southern Saudi Arabia on Friday, bringing hail, flash floods, and a sudden drop in temperatures across several regions, including Al Baha and Abha.

Moderate to light showers swept through Al Baha region, covering the city and outlying governorates such as Al Aqiq, Baljurashi, Bani Hasan, and Al Qura. The rainfall, which drenched parks and valleys, caused several ravines and dry riverbeds to overflow, revitalising the arid landscape.

In Abha, known for its temperate climate, residents were stunned by hail and the temperature dip to 18°C, the lowest recorded in the kingdom on one of the year's hottest months. “Abha flipped the script,” local media said, as videos circulated online showing torrents of water coursing through the streets and mountain roads blanketed in ice pellets.

The National Center for Meteorology raised its alert level to "advanced warning" in parts of Al Baha and Taif, cautioning of heavy downpours, severe wind gusts, poor visibility, and dangerous lightning activity. Authorities also warned of hail and flash flooding in affected areas.

In Taif, the red alert level was activated following reports of intense thunderstorms and hazardous conditions, prompting emergency services to remain on standby.