RIYADH: Heavy rains lashed Riyadh for more than 45 minutes yesterday, causing traffic jams in the city but no serious accidents. The rains are expected to continue over the next 24 hours.

A senior official from the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment Protection (PME) described the weather condition as “unstable” due to low pressure in the Eastern Mediterranean. He said strong winds are blowing at 50 kmph toward the central region. Downpour was also reported in Najran and Al-Ahsa provinces yesterday.

Naser Al-Sarhan, assistant professor in Air Science at the King Faisal Academy, said, “We are happy to welcome the rain, which is an indication of the advent of spring.” He added that the rain was due to southwesterly winds.

Al-Sarhan said heavy rain is expected next weekend due to climatic changes in the region.

Maj. Abdulrahman Al-Muqbel, head of the Riyadh Traffic Department, said that there were no major accidents due to the rains. “Our officials took positions in all strategic places to warn motorists to slow down because of the weather,” Al-Muqbel said.

“Since the PME has warned us of further rains and thunderstorms, we will be ready for the oncoming situation,” he added.

Officials of the Saudi Red Crescent were on high alert on highways to attend possible accidents. “The rains have brought pleasant tidings for the spring,” an official from the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development told Arab News. Welcoming the rains, he said heavy downpour is ideal for good plant cover.

“The rains will make a conducive environment for wildlife and plantation. We could also expect a higher percentage during the breeding season in spring. The wetness will freshen vegetation and grasslands in the central region,” he said.

He added that people would see desert flowers blossom and plants become green due to the rain. He also warned people who may visit greenery not to spoil plant cover and green grass, as these are ideal habitats for local and migratory birds. “The rains will greatly benefit the wildlife, providing water and necessary food for sustenance,” he said.

Following a directive from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, rain-seeking prayers were performed throughout the Kingdom on Wednesday. Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh led the prayers in Riyadh. The prayers were also performed in universities and schools throughout the Kingdom.

Worshippers at mosques expressed happiness over the rains, adding that they felt their prayers were being answered.