Riyadh, May 24, 2024 — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its weather forecast for Friday, predicting moderate to heavy thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and hail showers across the regions of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah. The center also warned of dust-stirring winds affecting parts of the Northern Region, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Madinah. The forecast, released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), provides detailed information on wind speeds, wave heights, and sea conditions for both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to public safety through timely meteorological updates.
Context and Background
The National Center for Meteorology is the authoritative body in Saudi Arabia responsible for monitoring weather patterns, issuing forecasts, and providing early warnings to protect lives and property. Its daily bulletins are essential for residents, travelers, and key sectors such as aviation, maritime transport, and agriculture. The latest forecast highlights the diverse climatic conditions across the Kingdom, from mountainous regions prone to thunderstorms to coastal areas where wind and wave conditions are critical for maritime activities.
This forecast comes as Saudi Arabia continues to invest in advanced meteorological infrastructure and early warning systems, aligning with Vision 2030 goals to enhance quality of life and ensure safety. The NCM’s work supports the Kingdom’s broader efforts to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather and climate change.
Key Details
According to the NCM, Friday’s weather will feature moderate to heavy thunderstorms in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, with strong winds and hail showers. These conditions may lead to reduced visibility and flash flooding in affected areas. Dust-stirring winds are expected over the Northern Region, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Madinah, which could impact air quality and road safety.
Over the Red Sea, winds will be northerly to northwesterly at 10–30 km/h, reaching 45 km/h in the northern and central parts. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the northern and central parts, and half a meter to one meter in the southern part. Sea conditions will be light to moderate in the north and central areas, and light in the south.
In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be westerly to northwesterly at 10–30 km/h, reaching 45 km/h over the central and southern parts. Waves may range from half a meter to one meter in the northern part, reaching two meters in the central and southern parts. Sea conditions will be light in the north and light to moderate in the central and southern areas.
Implications and Impact
The forecasted thunderstorms and dust storms could disrupt daily activities, particularly in the affected regions. Authorities may advise residents to stay indoors during heavy downpours and avoid driving through flooded areas. Maritime operators should exercise caution due to rough seas in parts of the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. The NCM’s timely warnings enable proactive measures by civil defense, transportation, and health authorities to minimize risks.
On a broader scale, accurate weather forecasting is vital for Saudi Arabia’s economic activities, including oil exports, shipping, and upcoming mega-events. It also supports the safety of pilgrims performing Umrah in Makkah, where thunderstorms are predicted. The Kingdom’s investment in meteorology reflects its commitment to safeguarding both citizens and visitors.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 prioritizes enhancing public services and infrastructure, including advanced weather monitoring and disaster preparedness. The National Center for Meteorology’s work exemplifies this by providing reliable forecasts that protect communities and support sustainable development. As the Kingdom continues to modernize, such initiatives contribute to a safer, more resilient society, aligning with the vision’s goals of improving quality of life and fostering a thriving economy. The NCM’s efforts also bolster Saudi Arabia’s regional leadership in climate adaptation and environmental stewardship.
20 Questions
Q1. What regions are expected to experience thunderstorms on Friday?
A1. Moderate to heavy thunderstorms are forecast for Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and Makkah, accompanied by strong winds and hail showers, according to the National Center for Meteorology.
Q2. Which areas will be affected by dust-stirring winds?
A2. Dust-stirring winds are expected over parts of the Northern Region, Al-Jawf, Tabuk, and Madinah, which may reduce visibility and affect air quality.
Q3. What are the wind speeds expected over the Red Sea?
A3. Winds over the Red Sea will be northerly to northwesterly at 10–30 km/h, reaching 45 km/h in the northern and central parts.
Q4. What wave heights are predicted for the Red Sea?
A4. Waves may range from half a meter to one and a half meters in the northern and central parts, and from half a meter to one meter in the southern part.
Q5. What sea conditions are expected in the Red Sea?
A5. The sea condition is likely to be light to moderate waves over the northern and central parts, and light waves over the southern part.
Q6. What are the wind conditions over the Arabian Gulf?
A6. Winds over the Arabian Gulf will be westerly to northwesterly at 10–30 km/h, reaching 45 km/h over the central and southern parts.
Q7. What wave heights are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?
A7. Waves may range from half a meter to one meter in the northern part, reaching two meters in the central and southern parts.
Q8. What sea conditions are expected in the Arabian Gulf?
A8. The sea condition is likely to be light waves in the northern part and light to moderate waves in the central and southern parts.
Q9. Who issued the weather forecast?
A9. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology and released via the Saudi Press Agency.
Q10. Why is this forecast important for public safety?
A10. It provides early warnings that help authorities and the public take precautions against hazardous weather, reducing risks to life and property.
Q11. How might the thunderstorms affect daily life in Makkah?
A11. Thunderstorms with strong winds and hail could disrupt travel and outdoor activities, and may cause flash flooding, requiring residents and pilgrims to exercise caution.
Q12. What should mariners do given the sea conditions?
A12. Mariners should be cautious, especially in areas with higher waves and winds, and follow any advisories issued by maritime authorities.
Q13. How does the NCM’s work align with Vision 2030?
A13. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life through advanced weather monitoring and early warning systems.
Q14. What is the role of the Saudi Press Agency in this forecast?
A14. SPA disseminates official government information, including weather forecasts, to ensure timely and accurate public awareness.
Q15. Are there any specific warnings for pilgrims in Makkah?
A15. Pilgrims should stay informed and follow guidance from authorities, as thunderstorms may cause hazardous conditions in Makkah.
Q16. How often does the NCM issue weather forecasts?
A16. The NCM issues daily forecasts and updates as needed to keep the public informed of changing weather conditions.
Q17. What impact could dust storms have on health?
A17. Dust storms can aggravate respiratory conditions and reduce visibility; people with allergies or breathing issues should limit outdoor exposure.
Q18. What precautions should residents take during thunderstorms?
A18. Residents should stay indoors, avoid driving through flooded areas, and secure loose objects that could be blown by strong winds.
Q19. Does the forecast affect shipping in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf?
A19. Yes, rough seas and strong winds may impact shipping; operators should monitor conditions and adjust schedules as necessary.
Q20. How can the public access the latest weather updates?
A20. Updates are available through the NCM’s official channels and the Saudi Press Agency, ensuring reliable and timely information.
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