The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its official weather forecast for Monday, November 2, 2026, warning of thunderstorms accompanied by hail and gusty winds across parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and the Eastern Region, as well as southern parts of Makkah Region. The forecast, released through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), also indicates that fog is expected over parts of these regions, in addition to parts of the Northern Borders and Al-Jouf regions. Authorities are urging residents and travelers to exercise caution and stay informed through official channels as the Kingdom continues to enhance its meteorological monitoring and public safety infrastructure under Vision 2030.
Have you ever wondered how Saudi Arabia manages such diverse and often extreme weather patterns across its vast territory? The NCM’s Monday forecast highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to providing timely, accurate, and life-saving information to citizens and residents. From the mountainous terrains of Aseer to the coastal waters of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf, the NCM’s detailed projections enable communities and industries to prepare effectively. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the forecast, its regional implications, and the broader context of Saudi Arabia’s advancing meteorological capabilities.
Context and Background
Did you know that the National Center for Meteorology operates one of the most advanced weather monitoring networks in the Middle East? As the authoritative body for meteorological services in the Kingdom, the NCM is responsible for issuing daily forecasts, severe weather warnings, and climate data. Its Monday bulletin is part of a continuous effort to safeguard lives and property, reflecting the Kingdom’s proactive approach to disaster risk reduction and climate resilience. The forecast is based on sophisticated numerical models, satellite imagery, and ground-based observations from stations across the country.
The regions mentioned in the forecast—Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, the Eastern Region, and southern Makkah—are known for their varied topography and climatic conditions. Jazan, in the southwest, features coastal plains and mountainous areas, making it susceptible to flash floods during heavy rains. Aseer and Al-Baha are characterized by highlands that often experience cooler temperatures and occasional hail. The Eastern Region, home to major oil facilities and urban centers like Dammam and Dhahran, can see sudden storms that disrupt daily life. Southern Makkah Region includes the holy city of Makkah and surrounding areas, where weather conditions are closely monitored, especially during pilgrimage seasons.
The NCM’s forecast also covers marine conditions, which are critical for maritime safety, fishing, and commercial shipping. The Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are vital waterways for Saudi Arabia’s trade and tourism. By providing detailed wind and wave forecasts, the NCM supports the safe navigation of vessels and the operations of ports such as Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. This integrated approach to weather forecasting underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to protecting its people and sustaining economic activities.
Key Details of the Monday Forecast
What exactly should residents and travelers expect on Monday? According to the NCM, thunderstorms with hail and gusty winds are anticipated in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and the Eastern Region, as well as southern parts of Makkah Region. These conditions may lead to reduced visibility, localized flooding, and hazardous driving conditions. Fog is also expected over parts of these regions, as well as parts of the Northern Borders and Al-Jouf regions, which could further impact morning commutes and outdoor activities. The NCM advises the public to avoid valleys and low-lying areas during heavy rain and to follow updates via its official channels.
On the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 12–32 km/h in the northern and central parts. In the southern part, winds will be southerly to southwesterly, shifting to northeasterly to southeasterly in the evening, at speeds of 12–32 km/h, reaching 40 km/h toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Waves will range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy. These conditions are important for fishermen, recreational boaters, and commercial vessels operating in the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors.
In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southeasterly to northeasterly at speeds of 10–32 km/h in the northern part, exceeding 50 km/h with thunderstorms. In the southern part, winds will be northeasterly to northwesterly at speeds of 10–28 km/h. Waves will range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy. Mariners are advised to monitor updates and take necessary precautions, especially in areas where thunderstorms may produce sudden strong gusts. The NCM’s detailed marine forecasts are essential for ensuring the safety of all those who rely on the sea for their livelihoods.
International and Regional Impact
How does Saudi Arabia’s weather forecasting affect the broader region? The Kingdom’s meteorological data is shared with international organizations such as the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and regional bodies, contributing to global weather prediction and climate monitoring. Accurate forecasts for the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are particularly important for international shipping lanes, as they help prevent accidents and optimize routes. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s experience in managing extreme weather events offers valuable lessons for neighboring countries facing similar challenges.
The forecast also has implications for regional travel and tourism. Visitors to Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, including destinations like Jeddah and NEOM’s Sindalah, may need to adjust their plans based on sea conditions. The NCM’s warnings enable hotels, tour operators, and transport companies to ensure the safety and comfort of guests. As the Kingdom continues to develop its tourism sector under Vision 2030, reliable weather information becomes increasingly vital for delivering world-class experiences.
Economic and Strategic Significance
Why does a weather forecast matter for a nation’s economy? In Saudi Arabia, weather conditions can impact key sectors such as oil and gas, transportation, agriculture, and construction. The Eastern Region, for instance, hosts critical energy infrastructure; thunderstorms and gusty winds can disrupt operations and pose safety risks. By providing advance warnings, the NCM helps companies implement precautionary measures, minimizing downtime and protecting assets. Similarly, the agricultural sector in Jazan and Aseer benefits from forecasts that guide irrigation and harvesting decisions.
The marine forecasts are equally significant for the Kingdom’s strategic maritime interests. The Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are essential for oil exports, imports, and the growing cruise industry. Accurate wind and wave predictions support the safe and efficient movement of goods and people, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a global logistics hub. Under Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to expand its ports and maritime capabilities, making the NCM’s services even more indispensable.
Vision 2030 Alignment
How does the National Center for Meteorology contribute to Saudi Vision 2030? The NCM’s work aligns with the Vision’s goals of enhancing quality of life, ensuring public safety, and fostering sustainable development. By investing in advanced technology and human capital, the NCM is building a world-class meteorological system that supports informed decision-making across government, business, and society. This is part of the broader effort to modernize public services and create a resilient, knowledge-based economy.
In conclusion, the NCM’s Monday forecast is more than just a weather report—it is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting its people and enabling prosperity. As the Kingdom continues to advance under Vision 2030, the NCM will remain a vital asset, delivering accurate and timely information to all. Residents and travelers are encouraged to stay updated through official NCM channels and to heed safety advisories. By doing so, they contribute to a safer and more resilient Saudi Arabia.
20 Questions
Q1. What regions are expected to experience thunderstorms on Monday?
A1. According to the National Center for Meteorology, thunderstorms with hail and gusty winds are expected in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and the Eastern Region, as well as southern parts of Makkah Region.
Q2. What additional weather condition is forecast for these regions?
A2. Fog is expected over parts of these regions, as well as parts of the Northern Borders and Al-Jouf regions, which may reduce visibility and affect travel.
Q3. What are the wind conditions expected over the Red Sea?
A3. Winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at 12–32 km/h in the northern and central parts, and southerly to southwesterly, shifting to northeasterly to southeasterly in the evening, at 12–32 km/h in the southern part, reaching 40 km/h toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Q4. What will the wave heights be like on the Red Sea?
A4. Waves on the Red Sea will range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy, according to the NCM forecast.
Q5. What are the wind conditions expected over the Arabian Gulf?
A5. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be southeasterly to northeasterly at 10–32 km/h in the northern part, exceeding 50 km/h with thunderstorms, and northeasterly to northwesterly at 10–28 km/h in the southern part.
Q6. What will the wave heights be like on the Arabian Gulf?
A6. Waves on the Arabian Gulf will range from half a meter to over two meters, and the sea will be calm to choppy, similar to the Red Sea conditions.
Q7. Which agency issued the weather forecast?
A7. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the authoritative body for meteorological services in Saudi Arabia, and was released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Q8. What safety advice is given to the public?
A8. The NCM advises the public to avoid valleys and low-lying areas during heavy rain, exercise caution while driving, and stay informed through official NCM channels.
Q9. How does this forecast affect maritime activities?
A9. The forecast provides critical information for fishermen, recreational boaters, and commercial vessels, helping them plan safe operations and avoid hazardous conditions on the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.
Q10. Why is the Red Sea forecast important for international shipping?
A10. The Red Sea is a vital global shipping lane; accurate wind and wave forecasts help prevent accidents, optimize routes, and ensure the safe passage of goods, supporting international trade.
Q11. What role does the NCM play in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?
A11. The NCM contributes to Vision 2030 by enhancing public safety, supporting economic sectors, and building a world-class meteorological system that aligns with the goals of a resilient, knowledge-based economy.
Q12. How does the forecast impact the Eastern Region’s oil facilities?
A12. Thunderstorms and gusty winds can disrupt operations and pose safety risks; advance warnings from the NCM help companies implement precautionary measures to minimize downtime and protect assets.
Q13. What should tourists do if they are visiting affected areas?
A13. Tourists should monitor weather updates, follow advice from local authorities, and adjust outdoor plans, especially in coastal and mountainous areas, to ensure their safety and comfort.
Q14. How does fog affect daily life in the Northern Borders and Al-Jouf?
A14. Fog can reduce visibility, leading to hazardous driving conditions and potential delays in transportation; residents are advised to drive cautiously and use fog lights.
Q15. Are there any specific warnings for the Bab al-Mandab Strait?
A15. Yes, winds may reach 40 km/h toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait, which could create choppy sea conditions; mariners should exercise caution in this strategic waterway.
Q16. How often does the NCM issue weather forecasts?
A16. The NCM issues daily forecasts and updates as conditions evolve, ensuring the public and various sectors receive timely and accurate information to make informed decisions.
Q17. What technology does the NCM use for weather forecasting?
A17. The NCM utilizes advanced numerical models, satellite imagery, and ground-based observations from a network of stations across the Kingdom to produce reliable forecasts.
Q18. How can the public access the latest weather updates?
A18. The public can access updates through the NCM’s official website, social media channels, and announcements carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) and other official media.
Q19. What is the significance of the NCM’s marine forecasts for the fishing industry?
A19. Marine forecasts help fishermen plan their trips safely, avoid hazardous conditions, and protect their livelihoods, contributing to the sustainability of the fishing industry.
Q20. How does this forecast reflect Saudi Arabia’s overall development?
A20. The forecast demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s investment in modern infrastructure and public services, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing quality of life and ensuring safety for all.
Reader Feedback
We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.
Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.





