Saudi Arabia Weather Forecast: Rain and Fog Expected Saturday

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast moderate to heavy rains accompanied by hail and dust-stirring winds across parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, according to its daily weather report issued on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The center also indicated that light to moderate rainfall is expected in parts of Madinah and Najran regions, while fog may form during the night and early morning hours along the coastal areas of Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Region.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official Saudi authority responsible for weather monitoring, forecasting, and early warning systems across the Kingdom. Its daily reports provide essential information for residents, travelers, and key sectors such as aviation, maritime operations, agriculture, and emergency services. The latest forecast reflects the NCM’s ongoing commitment to public safety and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance climate resilience and disaster preparedness under Vision 2030.

Weather patterns in September often bring convective activity to the southwestern highlands, where moist air from the Red Sea interacts with the region’s rugged terrain. This can lead to rapid cloud development, hail, and flash flooding in valleys. The NCM’s timely advisories are critical for mitigating risks and ensuring that communities and authorities can respond effectively.

Key Details

According to the NCM report, the affected areas include Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, where moderate to heavy rain, hail, and dust-stirring winds are anticipated. In Madinah and Najran, rainfall will be lighter, ranging from light to moderate. Fog is expected to develop overnight and during early morning hours along the coastal areas of Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Region, potentially reducing visibility on roads.

Maritime conditions were also detailed. Over the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 20-42 km/h, shifting to westerly to northwesterly at 12-42 km/h in the afternoon, and southeasterly to southwesterly at 10-50 km/h. Wave heights will range from half a meter to over two meters, with sea conditions from calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southeasterly to southwesterly at 10-25 km/h and northerly to northeasterly at 8-25 km/h, with waves reaching half a meter to one meter and relatively calm seas.

Implications and Impact

The forecast has significant implications for public safety and economic activities. Residents in the affected regions should remain alert to changing conditions, particularly in areas prone to flash flooding. Travelers are advised to exercise caution due to reduced visibility from fog and dust. Maritime operators in the Red Sea should prepare for choppy conditions, while those in the Arabian Gulf can expect relatively calm waters.

The NCM’s proactive dissemination of weather information underscores Saudi Arabia’s advanced meteorological capabilities and its dedication to protecting lives and property. This aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of enhancing quality of life and building resilient infrastructure. By providing accurate and timely forecasts, the NCM supports sectors such as tourism, which is vital to the national economy, by enabling informed planning and ensuring visitor safety.

Vision 2030 Alignment

As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy and attract international visitors, reliable weather forecasting becomes increasingly important. The National Center for Meteorology’s work directly supports Vision 2030 by fostering a safe environment for residents and tourists, facilitating smooth operations in key industries, and demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation and public welfare. Through such efforts, Saudi Arabia reinforces its role as a regional leader in meteorological science and disaster risk reduction.

20 Questions

Q1. Which regions are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain?

A1. The National Center for Meteorology forecasts moderate to heavy rain in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, accompanied by hail and dust-stirring winds. These areas often experience convective weather in September due to moisture from the Red Sea and mountainous terrain.

Q2. What other weather phenomena are expected in the affected regions?

A2. Along with rain, hail and dust-stirring winds are anticipated in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah. These conditions can reduce visibility and pose risks to drivers, so residents should stay informed through official NCM updates.

Q3. Which regions will experience lighter rainfall?

A3. Parts of Madinah and Najran regions are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall. While less intense than in the southwestern highlands, these showers can still affect daily activities and road conditions, so caution is advised.

Q4. Where might fog form, and when?

A4. Fog may form during the night and early morning hours along the coastal areas of Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Region. This can significantly reduce visibility, so motorists should use fog lights and maintain safe distances.

Q5. What are the wind conditions over the Red Sea?

A5. Over the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at 20-42 km/h, becoming westerly to northwesterly at 12-42 km/h in the afternoon, and southeasterly to southwesterly at 10-50 km/h. Mariners should plan accordingly.

Q6. What wave heights are expected in the Red Sea?

A6. Waves in the Red Sea will range from half a meter to over two meters, with sea conditions from calm to choppy. Small vessels should exercise caution, especially in areas with higher waves and stronger winds.

Q7. What are the wind conditions in the Arabian Gulf?

A7. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southeasterly to southwesterly at 10-25 km/h and northerly to northeasterly at 8-25 km/h. These gentle to moderate winds will make sea conditions relatively calm for most marine activities.

Q8. What wave heights are expected in the Arabian Gulf?

A8. Waves in the Arabian Gulf will reach half a meter to one meter, and the sea will be relatively calm. This is favorable for fishing, shipping, and recreational boating, though standard safety measures should still be observed.

Q9. Who issued this weather forecast?

A9. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), Saudi Arabia’s official authority for weather monitoring and forecasting. The NCM provides daily reports to keep the public informed and safe.

Q10. What is the role of the National Center for Meteorology?

A10. The NCM monitors weather conditions, issues forecasts and warnings, and conducts research to enhance meteorological services in Saudi Arabia. Its work supports public safety, economic sectors, and Vision 2030 goals.

Q11. How can residents stay safe during heavy rain and hail?

A11. Residents should avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, stay indoors if possible, and follow updates from official channels. Drivers should reduce speed and be cautious of reduced visibility and slippery roads.

Q12. What precautions should travelers take?

A12. Travelers should check weather updates before heading out, allow extra travel time, and use headlights in fog. It’s also wise to carry emergency supplies and avoid crossing flooded roads.

Q13. How does this weather affect maritime activities?

A13. In the Red Sea, choppy conditions may affect small boats, so mariners should monitor forecasts. The Arabian Gulf will be calmer, but standard safety protocols remain essential for all maritime operations.

Q14. Is this weather typical for September in Saudi Arabia?

A14. Yes, September often brings convective rainfall to the southwestern highlands due to seasonal moisture and terrain. The NCM regularly forecasts such patterns, helping communities prepare.

Q15. What should farmers do given the forecast?

A15. Farmers in affected regions should protect crops and livestock from hail and heavy rain, and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Following NCM advisories can help minimize agricultural losses.

Q16. How does the NCM disseminate its forecasts?

A16. The NCM shares forecasts through its official website, social media, and partnerships with media outlets like the Saudi Press Agency. This ensures widespread access to timely and accurate weather information.

Q17. What is the significance of fog warnings?

A17. Fog warnings are crucial because they alert drivers to potentially dangerous visibility conditions. Early morning fog along coastal areas can lead to accidents, so motorists should drive cautiously and use fog lights.

Q18. How does this forecast align with Vision 2030?

A18. Vision 2030 aims to enhance quality of life and safety. The NCM’s accurate forecasts support this by protecting residents and visitors, enabling smooth operations in tourism and other sectors, and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s technological advancement.

Q19. What should tourists do during this weather?

A19. Tourists should stay informed through official channels, avoid outdoor activities in affected areas during heavy rain, and follow local advice. Many indoor attractions remain open, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Q20. Where can the public find updates on weather conditions?

A20. The public can access updates via the National Center for Meteorology’s official website and social media accounts, as well as through the Saudi Press Agency and other official media outlets. Staying informed is key to safety.

---