Extreme heat and thunderstorms expected across several regions today

The National Center for Meteorology has issued a forecast of extreme heat, thunderstorms, and strong winds across various regions in Saudi Arabia today, August 15, 2026. According to the report, the Eastern Province and parts of Riyadh and Qassim will experience hot to extremely hot weather. Thunderstorms are expected to bring hail to highland areas in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah.

Additionally, strong winds will cause dust and sand to stir up, potentially reducing visibility, particularly along coastal areas of Madinah and Makkah, extending down the coastal road to Jazan. Surface winds in the northern Red Sea region are forecasted to reach 15–32 km/h, while central and southern areas will see winds ranging from 22–46 km/h, with gusts possibly exceeding 55 km/h.

Sea conditions will vary, with wave heights from half a meter to two and a half meters, becoming rougher with thunderstorm activity. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will shift from northeasterly to northerly in the early hours to southwesterly to westerly in the evening, with wave heights from half a meter to one meter.