Saudi Arabia issues red alerts for heavy rain and flash floods

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued severe weather warnings across Saudi Arabia, including a ‘red alert’ for parts of the Mecca province. The highest level of warning is in effect for areas such as Taif, Al-Kamil, and Adham due to the risk of heavy rainfall and flash floods.

Medium to heavy thunderstorms are expected to continue in several regions, including Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Mecca, and Madinah. These storms may be accompanied by hail, strong winds that stir up dust and sand, and the potential for significant flooding. Orange alerts have been issued for Madinah regions like Al-Ais, Al-Mahd, and Badr, while yellow alerts cover areas such as Jeddah and Rabigh.

Additional weather concerns include the possibility of thunderstorms and active winds in Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, the Northern Borders, Najran, and southern parts of the Eastern and Riyadh provinces. Coastal areas in the east may also experience fog during the night and early morning hours.

Maritime conditions are expected to be unsettled, particularly in the southern Red Sea, where winds could exceed 50 km/h and waves may reach heights of over two meters during thunderstorms. The Civil Defense has urged residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid valleys, dams, and waterlogged areas.