NCM: Rain and Hail Expected in Several Saudi Regions Monday

Riyadh, March 17, 2025 — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather forecast for Monday, indicating gusty winds and potential rain and hail across several regions of the Kingdom, including Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region. The NCM’s bulletin, released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), provides detailed information on wind patterns and sea conditions, helping residents and visitors plan accordingly. The forecast underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to public safety through timely and accurate meteorological updates.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official authority responsible for monitoring and forecasting weather across Saudi Arabia. Its regular bulletins are essential for various sectors, including aviation, maritime activities, agriculture, and public events. The NCM’s forecasts are based on advanced meteorological data and are disseminated through official channels such as the Saudi Press Agency to ensure wide reach and reliability.

Saudi Arabia’s diverse geography, from coastal areas to mountainous regions, necessitates precise weather monitoring. The NCM plays a critical role in safeguarding lives and property by providing early warnings of extreme weather events. This aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience, a key aspect of Saudi Vision 2030.

Key Details

According to the NCM, Monday’s weather will feature gusty winds and the possibility of rain and hail in Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region. Residents in these areas should be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions and take necessary precautions.

Over the Red Sea, winds will be northeasterly to northwesterly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southwesterly in the southern part, at speeds of 15-35 km/h. Waves may reach from half a meter to one and a half meters, and the sea will be relatively calm. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to westerly, reaching 10-25 km/h. Waves may range from half a meter to one meter, and the sea will also be relatively calm. These conditions are favorable for maritime activities, though sailors should remain cautious.

Implications and Impact

The forecasted weather conditions could affect daily activities, particularly in regions expecting rain and hail. Authorities may issue advisories for travel and outdoor events. The relatively calm seas in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are positive for shipping and recreational boating, supporting economic activities in coastal areas. The NCM’s timely updates enable individuals and businesses to make informed decisions, reflecting the Kingdom’s proactive approach to weather-related risks.

Furthermore, the accurate forecasting contributes to the safety of pilgrims visiting Makkah and other holy sites. The NCM’s role is vital in ensuring that Hajj and Umrah seasons proceed smoothly, with weather considerations integrated into crowd management and health protocols. This demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s dedication to the well-being of all visitors.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The National Center for Meteorology’s work exemplifies Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on leveraging technology and innovation to enhance public services and safety. By providing precise and timely weather information, the NCM supports key sectors such as tourism, transportation, and emergency management. As the Kingdom continues to develop smart cities and improve infrastructure, advanced meteorological services will play an increasingly important role in achieving the vision’s goals of a vibrant society and a thriving economy.

20 Questions

Q1. Which regions are expected to experience gusty winds and potential rain and hail on Monday?

A1. The National Center for Meteorology forecasts gusty winds and possible rain and hail in Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region. Residents should stay informed and take precautions.

Q2. What are the expected wind speeds over the Red Sea on Monday?

A2. Winds over the Red Sea will be northeasterly to northwesterly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southwesterly in the southern part, at speeds of 15-35 km/h.

Q3. How high might waves reach in the Red Sea?

A3. Waves in the Red Sea may reach from half a meter to one and a half meters, and the sea will be relatively calm, according to the National Center for Meteorology.

Q4. What are the wind conditions expected in the Arabian Gulf?

A4. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to westerly, reaching 10-25 km/h. Waves may range from half a meter to one meter, and the sea will be relatively calm.

Q5. Which authority issued the weather forecast for Monday?

A5. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring and forecasting weather across the Kingdom.

Q6. How does the NCM disseminate its weather forecasts?

A6. The NCM disseminates its forecasts through official channels such as the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), ensuring wide reach and reliability to the public and relevant sectors.

Q7. Why is the NCM’s forecast important for maritime activities?

A7. The forecast provides crucial information on wind speeds and wave heights, helping sailors and shipping companies plan safe routes and avoid potential hazards on the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

Q8. How might the weather affect daily life in the affected regions?

A8. Residents in regions expecting rain and hail may need to adjust travel plans and outdoor activities. Authorities may issue advisories to ensure public safety.

Q9. What role does the NCM play in ensuring the safety of pilgrims?

A9. The NCM provides timely weather updates that help authorities manage crowd safety during Hajj and Umrah, ensuring the well-being of pilgrims in Makkah and other holy sites.

Q10. How does the NCM’s work align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A10. The NCM’s use of advanced technology and data supports Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing public services, safety, and innovation, contributing to a vibrant society and thriving economy.

Q11. What precautions should residents take during gusty winds and hail?

A11. Residents should secure loose objects, avoid outdoor activities during severe weather, and stay updated with official NCM advisories to ensure personal safety.

Q12. Are there any travel advisories issued for Monday?

A12. As of now, no specific travel advisories have been issued, but travelers should monitor NCM updates and exercise caution in areas expecting adverse weather.

Q13. How often does the NCM update its weather forecasts?

A13. The NCM regularly updates its forecasts, typically multiple times daily or as weather conditions evolve, to provide the most current information.

Q14. What is the significance of the relatively calm seas for the economy?

A14. Calm seas support maritime trade and tourism, allowing for smooth shipping operations and recreational activities, which contribute to economic growth in coastal regions.

Q15. Can the forecasted rain and hail impact agricultural activities?

A15. Rain can benefit agriculture by providing water, but hail may damage crops. Farmers should monitor updates and take protective measures if necessary.

Q16. How does the NCM gather weather data?

A16. The NCM uses a network of weather stations, satellites, radar systems, and advanced computer models to collect and analyze meteorological data across the Kingdom.

Q17. What should fishermen do given the expected wind conditions?

A17. Fishermen should check the latest NCM forecasts, ensure their vessels are secure, and avoid venturing into rough waters. The expected conditions are relatively calm but caution is advised.

Q18. Will the weather affect flights in the affected regions?

A18. While gusty winds and hail can potentially cause delays, airlines and airports follow NCM guidance to ensure safety. Travelers should check with their carriers for updates.

Q19. How can the public access the NCM’s weather forecasts?

A19. The public can access forecasts through the NCM’s official website, social media channels, and announcements via the Saudi Press Agency and other official media.

Q20. What is the overall objective of the NCM’s weather warnings?

A20. The NCM aims to protect lives and property by providing early warnings of extreme weather, enabling individuals, businesses, and authorities to take timely and appropriate actions.