Weather Forecast for Sunday: Thunderstorms, Floods, Hail in Saudi Regions

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather forecast for Sunday, September 20, 2026, warning of moderate to heavy thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), light to moderate rain showers are also expected in parts of Madinah Region, while gusty, dust-stirring winds will affect these areas and parts of Riyadh Region. Fog may form overnight and in the early morning along the coastal areas of Makkah and the Eastern Region.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official authority responsible for monitoring and forecasting weather conditions across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its daily bulletins provide essential information for citizens, residents, and visitors, enabling them to plan activities safely and take necessary precautions. This particular forecast comes as the region transitions through seasonal weather patterns that often bring convective activity to the southwestern highlands and coastal areas.

The NCM continuously monitors atmospheric conditions using advanced technology, including weather radar, satellites, and ground-based observation stations. These tools allow meteorologists to issue timely warnings and ensure public safety. The center’s work aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to leveraging science and innovation for the well-being of society.

Key Details

According to the NCM bulletin released via SPA, the following weather conditions are expected on Sunday:

• Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions: Moderate to heavy thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail.
• Madinah Region: Light to moderate rain showers.
• Riyadh Region and affected areas: Gusty, dust-stirring winds.
• Coastal areas of Makkah and Eastern Region: Fog overnight and early morning.

Marine conditions were also detailed. Over the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 20-43 km/h and southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds of 15-50 km/h. Waves may range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southwesterly to northwesterly at speeds of 10-25 km/h, and southeasterly to northeasterly at speeds of 10-25 km/h. Waves will range from half a meter to one meter, and the sea will be calm.

Implications and Impact

The forecasted thunderstorms and potential flash floods in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions may impact local infrastructure, travel, and outdoor activities. Residents and travelers are advised to stay informed through official NCM channels and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The dust-stirring winds in Riyadh and other areas could reduce visibility and affect air quality, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.

For maritime operators, the choppy conditions in the Red Sea warrant caution, especially for small vessels. The calm conditions in the Arabian Gulf are more favorable for marine activities. The NCM’s timely warnings are crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring public safety.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of quality of life and safety for all residents and visitors. The National Center for Meteorology’s advanced forecasting capabilities and public dissemination of critical weather information reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging science and technology for societal benefit. By providing accurate and timely weather updates, the NCM supports various sectors, including tourism, transportation, and emergency management, contributing to a resilient and well-informed society.

20 Questions

Q1. What weather conditions are expected in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions?

A1. Moderate to heavy thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail are expected in these regions according to the National Center for Meteorology.

Q2. Which regions may experience light to moderate rain showers?

A2. Parts of Madinah Region are expected to receive light to moderate rain showers on Sunday.

Q3. Where are gusty, dust-stirring winds forecasted?

A3. These winds are expected in the regions mentioned above, as well as parts of Riyadh Region.

Q4. When might fog form in coastal areas?

A4. Fog may form overnight and in the early morning in the coastal areas of Makkah and the Eastern Region.

Q5. What are the wind speeds expected over the Red Sea?

A5. Winds will be northwesterly to northerly at 20-43 km/h and southwesterly to northwesterly at 15-50 km/h.

Q6. What will the sea conditions be like in the Red Sea?

A6. Waves may range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy.

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

A7. Winds will be southwesterly to northwesterly at 10-25 km/h, and southeasterly to northeasterly at 10-25 km/h.

Q8. What will the wave height be in the Arabian Gulf?

A8. Waves will range from half a meter to one meter, and the sea will be calm.

Q9. Which authority issued this weather forecast?

A9. The National Center for Meteorology issued the forecast, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q10. What are the potential risks associated with the forecasted thunderstorms?

A10. Flash floods and hail may impact infrastructure, travel, and outdoor activities in the affected regions.

Q11. How can residents stay safe during the severe weather?

A11. Residents should monitor official NCM updates and follow safety guidelines from local authorities.

Q12. What effect might dust-stirring winds have on Riyadh?

A12. The winds could reduce visibility and affect air quality, especially for people with respiratory issues.

Q13. Are there any marine advisories for the Red Sea?

A13. The choppy conditions may be hazardous for small vessels, so operators should exercise caution.

Q14. What is the significance of the NCM’s forecast for Vision 2030?

A14. It reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to using science and technology to enhance quality of life and safety.

Q15. How does the NCM gather weather data?

A15. The NCM uses weather radar, satellites, and ground stations to monitor atmospheric conditions.

Q16. What should travelers do if they are in affected areas?

A16. Travelers should stay informed, avoid flood-prone areas, and follow instructions from authorities.

Q17. Will the weather affect flights or road travel?

A17. Potentially, as thunderstorms and dust may reduce visibility; travelers should check with airlines and road authorities.

Q18. Is this weather typical for this time of year?

A18. Yes, convective activity is common in the southwestern highlands and coastal areas during seasonal transitions.

Q19. How can the public access the full weather bulletin?

A19. The full bulletin is available through the Saudi Press Agency and official NCM channels.

Q20. What is the overall goal of the NCM’s public warnings?

A20. The goal is to ensure public safety by providing timely and accurate weather information to all residents and visitors.

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