Saudi NCM Forecasts Rain, Hail, and Dust Winds for Thursday

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued the weather forecast for Thursday, February 13, 2025, indicating dust-stirring winds, potential rain and hail across multiple regions of Saudi Arabia, along with varying sea conditions in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. The forecast covers Riyadh, Qassim, Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, and the Eastern Region, where fog may also form.

Context and Background

The NCM, Saudi Arabia’s official meteorological authority, provides regular weather updates to ensure public safety and support economic activities. This forecast is part of the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging advanced meteorological data for the well-being of residents and visitors, aligning with the broader goals of Vision 2030 to enhance quality of life through science and technology.

Key Details

According to the NCM, dust-stirring winds are expected across several regions, potentially reducing visibility. Rain and hail are forecast for Riyadh, Qassim, Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, and the Eastern Region. Fog formation is also likely in these areas. The NCM advises caution for travelers and outdoor workers, and recommends staying updated via official channels.

Implications and Impact

The weather conditions may affect road travel and outdoor events, particularly in regions prone to dust and reduced visibility. The NCM’s timely warnings help minimize disruptions to daily life and economic activities, including logistics and tourism. The forecast also impacts maritime operations, with the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf experiencing varying wind speeds and wave heights, from calm to choppy seas.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This weather forecast demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to public safety and modern infrastructure, key pillars of Vision 2030. By utilizing advanced meteorological services, the Kingdom enhances its resilience to weather-related challenges and supports a safe environment for residents and investors, contributing to a sustainable and prosperous future.

20 Questions

Q1. Which official body issued the weather forecast for Thursday?

A1. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued the weather forecast for Thursday, February 13, 2025, based on official monitoring and analysis.

Q2. What weather phenomena are expected in several regions?

A2. Dust-stirring winds, rain, hail, and potential fog are expected across multiple regions of Saudi Arabia.

Q3. Which regions are included in the forecast?

A3. The forecast covers Riyadh, Qassim, Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan, Najran, and the Eastern Region.

Q4. Will fog form in any areas?

A4. Yes, fog may form in the mentioned regions, potentially reducing visibility.

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

A5. Winds over the Red Sea are northwesterly to northerly in the north and central parts, and southerly to southeasterly in the south, at speeds of 18-50 km/h.

Q6. How high are the waves in the Red Sea?

A6. Waves in the Red Sea may range from one to over two meters, with conditions from relatively calm to choppy.

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

A7. Winds in the Arabian Gulf are northeasterly to southeasterly, shifting to northwesterly or northeasterly in the evening, at 12-50 km/h.

Q8. How high are the waves in the Arabian Gulf?

A8. Waves in the Arabian Gulf may reach from half a meter to over two meters, with sea conditions from calm to choppy.

Q9. Why does the NCM issue regular weather forecasts?

A9. The NCM provides forecasts to ensure public safety, support economic activities, and inform decision-making for residents and visitors.

Q10. How does this forecast align with Vision 2030?

A10. It supports Vision 2030 goals of enhancing quality of life and public safety through advanced meteorological services and modern infrastructure.

Q11. What advice does the NCM give to the public?

A11. The NCM advises caution for travelers and outdoor workers, and recommends staying updated via official channels.

Q12. Could the weather affect travel?

A12. Yes, dust-stirring winds and fog may reduce visibility, potentially affecting road travel and outdoor events.

Q13. What sectors could be impacted by the weather?

A13. Logistics, tourism, and outdoor events may be affected, but timely warnings help minimize disruptions.

Q14. Is the NCM part of any government ministry?

A14. The NCM operates under the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, providing official meteorological services.

Q15. What is the source of this forecast information?

A15. The information originates from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), citing the National Center for Meteorology.

Q16. Are there any specific warnings for maritime activities?

A16. Yes, varying wind speeds and wave heights may create choppy conditions, so mariners should exercise caution.

Q17. How does this forecast support economic resilience?

A17. Accurate forecasts help businesses and authorities prepare for weather disruptions, supporting continuous operations and safety.

Q18. What technology does the NCM use for forecasting?

A18. The NCM uses advanced meteorological monitoring systems and data analysis to provide accurate and timely forecasts.

Q19. Can the public access NCM updates?

A19. Yes, the NCM provides updates through its official website and social media channels for public access.

Q20. Why is this forecast important for residents?

A20. It enables residents to plan their activities safely, especially those involving travel or outdoor work, reducing weather-related risks.

---