Thunderstorms, flash floods forecast across parts of Saudi Arabia as temperatures hit 49°C

Saudi Arabia is bracing for a heatwave and severe weather conditions on Sunday, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM). Temperatures are expected to soar up to 49°C in some regions, with Dammam forecast to reach the highest temperature at 49°C, followed by Riyadh and Buraidah at 47°C. Other cities like Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah are expected to experience temperatures around 45°C, 43°C, and 42°C respectively.

In contrast, areas such as Abha, Tabuk, and Jazan will have slightly cooler highs of 31°C, 37°C, and 42°C.

The NCM predicts thunderstorms accompanied by moderate to heavy rain and hail in parts of Jazan and Asir, which could lead to flash floods. Active winds, capable of stirring up dust and sand, are expected in Riyadh, the Eastern Province, Madinah, Makkah, and Najran. Additionally, dusty conditions are anticipated over parts of Tabuk, while Buraidah will be dusty to partly cloudy. Hail and active winds are also forecast in Hail and Sakaka, while Arar is expected to have active winds and raised dust.

Fog may form during the night and early morning over the Eastern Province's coast and the Jazan coast. Overall, Saudi Arabia is set to experience a combination of extreme heat, thunderstorms, flash floods, and dusty conditions on Sunday.