Saudi: Thunderstorms, heavy rain to hit several regions until Saturday

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defense has warned that thunderstorms are expected to affect several regions of the Kingdom through Saturday, urging residents to remain cautious.

Authorities advised the public to stay indoors during severe weather, avoid valleys and flood-prone areas, and follow safety guidance issued through official media and social platforms.

Forecasts indicate moderate to heavy rain in parts of Makkah, Riyadh, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, Hail, Northern Borders, Madinah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, Najran, Qassim and the Eastern Province. Flash floods, hail and dust storms are possible in some areas.

The National Center for Meteorology said the conditions are linked to seasonal instability over the Arabian Peninsula, caused by the interaction of warm surface air and cooler upper-level systems, resulting in thunderstorms and heavy downpours.

Over the weekend, rainfall was recorded at 63 monitoring stations across nine regions, according to the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture.

Asir registered the highest totals, with 52 millimeters recorded at Abha Airport and 50.8 millimeters in Al-Fawha in Balqarn. Heavy rain was reported across the region, covering highlands and plains and lowering temperatures during Eid.

In Riyadh Region, Al-Aflaj recorded 14.2 millimeters. Other readings included 11.2 millimeters in Al-Muhammadiyah in Baljurashi, Al-Baha, and 8.4 millimeters in Yabrin in the Eastern Province.

Al-Baha experienced heavy rain and hail on Monday, while moderate rainfall was reported across Hail Region, where local valleys and streams saw increased flow.

Authorities said monitoring efforts are ongoing and reminded motorists to avoid flooded areas and water channels.