https://arab.news/58q29
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s meteorology authorities have forecast thunderstorms followed by moderate to heavy rainfall across several regions, with the inclement weather expected to last until Sunday.
The National Center for Meteorology said on Friday: “The forecasts indicate light to moderate rain will fall in the Riyadh region (Hawtah Bani Tamim, Al-Hariq, Al-Muzahmiyya, Al-Kharj, Riyadh, Haremla, Diriyah, Dharmah) from Thursday to Sunday.”
Keeping in view the NCM forecast, the General Directorate of Civil Defense issued inclement weather warnings accompanied by safety instructions as the country braces for heavy rainfall.
“The Civil Defense calls on everyone to take precautions and adhere to its instructions … Your cooperation is our goal, and your safety is our aim,” read a text message from the authority to residents.
The cloudy weather in the capital is expected to continue until the next weekend with only Monday expected to be a full sunny day.
Temperatures plummeted to a low of 17 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature was pegged at 27 degrees. Thursday night also saw cold winds blowing at high speeds, heralding the onset of winter in Riyadh.
Following the heavy rains forecast, the Civil Defense also issued a warning for potential flooding in multiple regions of Saudi Arabia.
“Residents are advised to take precautions, avoid areas prone to flooding, and follow safety guidelines disseminated through various media channels,” it said.
“The Makkah region is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by hail and strong winds. Rainfall, ranging from light to heavy, will also affect the Riyadh region. Other regions anticipated to be impacted by significant rainfall include Madinah, Hail, Qassim, the Northern Borders, the Eastern Province, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, and Najran. Tabuk and Jouf may experience lighter rainfall," it added.
The Civil Defense urged all citizens to prioritize their safety and adhere to authorities’ instructions provided through various media channels.
"When it rains, follow the instructions and stay away from valleys and waterlogged areas," the Civil Defense posted on X.