Watch video: Powerful tornado hits Rabigh in Saudi Arabia, safety warnings issued

Dubai: A powerful tornado struck Rabigh Governorate in Saudi Arabia on Monday (January 6), marking the strongest ever to touch the region's coast and causing high waves.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) announced plans to study this extraordinary event. Earlier in the day, the NCM issued a red alert for heavy rain expected in Jeddah, with forecasts predicting severe weather conditions across the Makkah region.

The weather warnings include strong winds, low visibility, hailstorms, flooding, high waves, and thunderstorms. In light of these conditions, authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution.

The Mecca Crisis and Disaster Management Centre has specifically advised drivers to proceed cautiously on highways and warned beachgoers to avoid entering the sea due to dangerous waves. Residents are also instructed to steer clear of flood-prone areas and avoid locations likely to experience water accumulation.

Forecasts suggest moderate to strong thunderstorms will affect governorates across the region on Monday and Tuesday. Hazards include hail, dust storms, and rough sea conditions, making outdoor activities and travel risky.

The General Directorate of Civil Defence has also issued safety advisories, emphasizing the risks posed by flash floods. Residents are urged to avoid valleys, flood-prone zones, and swimming in dangerous areas, particularly where heavy rainfall accumulation is expected.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have urged the public to prioritize safety during this period of extreme weather.