Heavy rain, flash flood risk forecast across parts of Saudi Arabia through Friday

JEDDAH — As the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) predicts heavy rainfall with possible flash floods across multiple regions in Saudi Arabia through Friday, officials warn residents to stay vigilant. Heavy rain, defined as 10–50 mm per hour or more, may be accompanied by strong downdraft winds of 60 km/h or more, near-zero visibility, hail, flash floods, high waves along coastlines, and potential tornadoes or waterspouts.

Moderate rain, ranging from 5–9 mm per hour, could bring similar hazards, while light rain, between 1–4 mm per hour, is less concerning.

The NCM anticipates moderate to heavy rain across Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, with affected areas including Al-Rayth, Harub, Al-Dayer, and others in Jazan; Abha, Khamis Mushait, and nearby towns in Asir; and Al-Baha, Baljurashi, and Al-Mandaq in Al-Baha. Rainfall is expected to intensify on Sunday and Friday in Jazan and Asir, and on Monday and Tuesday in Al-Baha.

In the Makkah region, light to moderate rain is predicted for Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al-Ardiyat, while moderate to heavy rain is expected to hit Al-Kamil, Bahrah, Al-Jumum, and Khulais, also intensifying on Monday and Tuesday.

Additionally, light to moderate rain is forecast for Madinah, Al-Ula, and Khaybar, as well as in Najran, Badr Al-Janub, Yadamah, Thar, Hubuna, and Khubash. The NCM advises the public to regularly check weather updates via official channels and adhere to directives from local authorities.