Heavy rains and dust expected in parts of Saudi Arabia

The Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its daily weather forecast for Thursday, August 13, 2026, indicating moderate to heavy thunderstorms accompanied by hail and potential flash floods across parts of the Jazan and Asir regions. The forecast, released via the Saudi Press Agency, also covers lighter rainfall in parts of Najran, Al-Baha, and the highlands of the Makkah region.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is Saudi Arabia’s official authority for weather forecasting and early warning systems. Its daily reports are crucial for public safety, aviation, maritime operations, and disaster preparedness across the Kingdom. This particular forecast falls within the summer season, when convective clouds often develop over the southwestern highlands, bringing significant rainfall.

Key Details

According to the NCM report, thunderstorm clouds will form over parts of the Riyadh and Eastern Province regions, especially in their southern areas. Active winds stirring up dust and sand are expected to affect these regions, with near-zero horizontal visibility along the coastal parts of Madinah and Makkah. Maximum temperatures will remain high in the Eastern Province and parts of Riyadh, Makkah, and Madinah.

Over the Red Sea, surface winds will be northwesterly to westerly, with speeds of 20-45 km/h in the northern and central parts, and 15-35 km/h in the southern part. Wave heights will range from one to two meters, reaching up to 2.5 meters in the central part, where thunderstorm clouds are also anticipated. The sea state will be moderate to rough in the central area. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southwesterly to southeasterly in the north and central parts, and northeasterly to northwesterly in the south, at speeds of 10-28 km/h, with waves between half a meter and one meter.

Implications and Impact

The forecast underscores the importance of the NCM’s early warning systems in mitigating the risks of severe weather. For residents and travelers in the affected regions, the advisory enables precautionary measures against flash floods, reduced visibility, and high temperatures. The maritime advisories are particularly vital for shipping and fishing activities in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The advanced meteorological services provided by the NCM align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of enhancing public safety, promoting sustainable development, and building a resilient infrastructure. By leveraging state-of-the-art forecasting technology and proactive communication, the Kingdom continues to protect its citizens and visitors while supporting economic activities that depend on accurate weather information.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the source of the weather forecast?

A1. The forecast is released by the Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the Kingdom’s official authority for monitoring and predicting weather conditions and issuing timely alerts.

Q2. Which regions will experience heavy rain?

A2. According to the forecast, heavy rain with thunderstorms and hail will affect parts of Jazan and Asir, potentially causing flash floods and impacting daily activities.

Q3. Are there areas with lighter rainfall?

A3. Yes, lighter to moderate rainfall is expected in parts of Najran, Al-Baha, and the highlands of the Makkah region, bringing some relief but still requiring caution.

Q4. What weather is expected in Riyadh and the Eastern Province?

A4. Thunderstorm clouds will form in parts of Riyadh and the Eastern Province, especially in the south, with active winds raising dust and reducing visibility.

Q5. How will winds affect coastal areas?

A5. Active winds along the coastal parts of Madinah and Makkah may cause near-zero horizontal visibility due to blowing dust and sand, demanding caution for travelers.

Q6. Are temperatures expected to remain high?

A6. Yes, maximum temperatures will remain high in the Eastern Province and parts of Riyadh, Makkah, and Madinah, indicating continued hot conditions in those areas.

Q7. What are the wind speeds over the Red Sea?

A7. The Red Sea will see northwesterly to westerly winds at 20-45 km/h in the northern and central parts, and 15-35 km/h in the southern part.

Q8. How high could waves get in the Red Sea?

A8. Waves in the Red Sea will range from 1 to 2 meters, reaching up to 2.5 meters in the central part, where thunderstorm clouds are also expected.

Q9. What is the sea state in the Red Sea?

A9. The sea state in the Red Sea will be moderate, becoming rough in the central part due to strong winds and potential thunderstorms.

Q10. What are the conditions in the Arabian Gulf?

A10. The Arabian Gulf will experience lighter winds at 10-28 km/h with waves from 0.5 to 1 meter, resulting in a light sea state in general.

Q11. How can residents stay safe during such weather?

A11. Residents should follow official guidance, avoid flood-prone areas, secure loose objects, and stay informed through NCM alerts to ensure safety during adverse conditions.

Q12. Why does the NCM issue daily forecasts?

A12. The NCM issues daily forecasts to keep the public informed, support economic activities, and enhance preparedness against potential hazards, aligning with safety goals.

Q13. What role does Vision 2030 play in weather services?

A13. Vision 2030 promotes sustainable development and public safety, leading to investments in advanced meteorological technologies and early warning systems.

Q14. How do thunderstorms affect daily life?

A14. Thunderstorms can lead to flash floods, disrupt travel, and cause power outages; hence, residents in affected areas are advised to take precautionary measures.

Q15. Is the NCM the only source of weather information?

A15. The NCM is the primary official source for weather in Saudi Arabia, but updates are also shared through authorized platforms and recognized news outlets like SPA.

Q16. Can weather forecasts change during the day?

A16. Yes, weather conditions can evolve, so the NCM regularly updates forecasts and issues warnings to reflect the latest changes for public awareness.

Q17. Why are coastal winds important for maritime activities?

A17. Coastal winds significantly affect maritime navigation, fishing, and logistics; thus, accurate wind forecasts help ensure safe operations and reduce risks.

Q18. How does the NCM contribute to aviation safety?

A18. By providing accurate and timely weather data, the NCM aids pilots and airports in making informed decisions, thereby enhancing aviation safety.

Q19. What precautions should drivers take in dust storms?

A19. Drivers should reduce speed, use headlights, maintain safe distance, and if visibility is severely reduced, pull over in a safe location until conditions improve.

Q20. Where can the public find official weather updates?

A20. The public can find official updates on the NCM’s website, social media channels, and through trusted Saudi news agencies, ensuring they receive reliable information.

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