Saudi Arabia is bracing for more rainfall across multiple regions, with heavy showers continuing to impact key cities, including Makkah and Madinah, Saudi Gazette reported.
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has reported that nine regions across Saudi Arabia have already received significant rainfall, with Jeddah’s Jamiah district recording the highest at 24.8 mm.
According to NCM forecasts, the rains will persist through Sunday, affecting large parts of Saudi Arabia with varying intensities. The wet conditions are expected to be accompanied by strong downdrafts, dust storms, and wind speeds reaching up to 60 km/h. Coastal areas may experience high waves, while the highlands could see heavy hailstorms. Flash floods remain a major concern, especially in low-lying areas.
The weather authority emphasized that Makkah and Madinah, including their coastal and mountainous regions, will witness moderate to heavy rains. Additionally, central and eastern parts of Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Qassim, and the Eastern Province, will experience downpours ranging from moderate to extremely heavy. The southern regions of Al-Baha, Asir, Najran, and Jazan are also at risk of flash floods due to the ongoing rains.
Authorities have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution, avoid valleys and flood-prone areas, and follow safety advisories issued by official channels. The NCM has stressed the importance of staying updated through its periodic reports and social media platforms.
In Makkah, the first day of the last ten days of Ramadan was marked by moderate rainfall, creating a unique experience for Umrah pilgrims at the Grand Mosque. Worshippers expressed joy at witnessing this rare event, embracing the combination of rainfall and the blessings of the sacred month. Many captured these special moments, sharing videos and images on social media. Despite the wet conditions, pilgrims performed their rituals smoothly, aided by the well-coordinated services of the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
Heavy rains also struck Jeddah on Thursday, accompanied by hail in some areas. The Jeddah Mayoralty swiftly activated emergency field teams, deployed drainage equipment, and coordinated with relevant authorities to manage the situation effectively. The National Center of Meteorology issued a red alert, warning residents of ongoing rains, thunderstorms, poor visibility, and the risk of flash floods until late evening.
In response to the adverse weather, the General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged people to remain in safe areas and avoid flood zones. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Makkah has also raised its preparedness level, ensuring that emergency response teams, ambulances, and medical personnel are fully equipped to handle any weather-related incidents. With 99 emergency centers operating at maximum capacity, Saudi Arabia is making every effort to mitigate the impact of the heavy rains and ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors.