Civil Defense urges caution amid forecast of thunderstorms across Saudi Arabia through Tuesday
The General Directorate of Civil Defense in Saudi Arabia warns the public to stay in safe locations due to forecasted thunderstorms. These storms are expected from Friday through Tuesday. People should avoid valleys and areas prone to flooding. They are also told not to swim in floodwaters. The National Center for Meteorology predicts moderate to heavy rain in the Makkah region. This weather may cause hail, flash floods, and strong downdrafts that move dust and sand. Similar forecasts apply to the Riyadh region.
RIYADH — The General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged the public to exercise caution and remain in safe locations amid forecasts of thunderstorms hitting across Saudi Arabia from Friday through Tuesday. It called on the people to avoid flood-prone areas and valleys, and refrain from swimming in floodwaters.The Civil Defense cautioned the public to follow instructions issued through various media outlets and social media platforms.The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) reported that the Makkah region is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially causing flash floods, hail, and strong downdrafts that stir up dust and sand. The Riyadh region is also forecast to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, with similar conditions expected in Afif, Al-Dawadmi, Shaqra, Thadiq, Al-Ghat, Al-Zulfi, Al-Majma'ah, Rumah, and Marat. Light to moderate rainfall is expected in Riyadh city, Al-Quwayiyah, Al-Rayn, Dhurma, Al-Hariq, and Al-Kharj.The NCM added that the regions of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Madinah, Hail, Qassim, Al-Jouf, Northern Borders, and Eastern Province are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, potentially accompanied by flash floods, hail, and strong downdrafts that stir up dust and sand.