The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather forecast for Sunday, August 16, 2026, indicating moderate to heavy thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds in parts of the Jazan and Aseer regions. The forecast, released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), also predicts light to moderate rain in parts of Najran, Al-Baha, and the southern highlands of the Makkah Region.
Context and Background
The NCM’s daily forecasts are part of Saudi Arabia’s advanced meteorological monitoring systems, which support public safety and align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of enhancing quality of life through proactive environmental services. The center provides timely warnings to help residents and visitors prepare for weather-related hazards.
In contrast, the Eastern, Riyadh, Qassim, and Northern Borders regions will experience hot to extremely hot temperatures, with gusty, dust-stirring winds. These conditions may reduce horizontal visibility to near zero along the coasts of Madinah and Makkah, impacting travel and outdoor activities.
Key Details
For the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 15–30 km/h in the northern part, 20–45 km/h in the central part, and southwesterly to northwesterly at 15–55 km/h in the southern part. Waves will range from half a meter to over two meters, making the sea calm to choppy.
In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at 15–35 km/h in the northern and central parts, shifting in the evening to northwesterly to southeasterly at 10–25 km/h in the southern part. Waves will be half a meter to one meter, with relatively calm seas.
Implications and Impact
The forecast highlights the need for caution in areas prone to flash floods, particularly in the southwestern regions. Authorities have urged residents and travelers to adhere to safety guidelines and follow updates from official channels. The hot and dusty conditions in central and eastern Saudi Arabia may affect visibility, so drivers are advised to exercise caution.
These weather patterns are typical for August, but the NCM’s precise monitoring helps mitigate risks. The Kingdom’s investment in meteorological infrastructure underscores its commitment to safeguarding communities and supporting economic activities such as aviation and maritime transport.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 prioritizes environmental sustainability and public safety, as reflected in the NCM’s advanced forecasting capabilities. By providing accurate weather predictions, the Kingdom enhances its resilience to climate-related challenges, contributing to a higher quality of life and a more sustainable future. As the Kingdom continues to modernize, such proactive measures reinforce its role as a regional leader in governance and innovation.
20 Questions
Q1. Which regions will experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms according to the forecast?
A1. The forecast indicates moderate to heavy thunderstorms in parts of Jazan and Aseer regions, with potential for flash floods, hail, and gusty winds.
Q2. What is the source of the weather forecast?
A2. The forecast is issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) and released through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Q3. Are there any regions expecting light to moderate rain?
A3. Light to moderate rain is expected over parts of Najran, Al-Baha, and the southern highlands of the Makkah Region.
Q4. What weather conditions are predicted for Eastern, Riyadh, Qassim, and Northern Borders?
A4. These regions will experience hot to extremely hot temperatures, with gusty dust-stirring winds that may reduce visibility.
Q5. How strong are the winds in the northern part of the Red Sea?
A5. Winds in the northern part of the Red Sea will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 15-30 km/h.
Q6. What are the wave heights in the Red Sea on Sunday?
A6. Waves in the Red Sea will range from half a meter to over two meters, with conditions varying from calm to choppy.
Q7. What is the wind speed in the central part of the Red Sea?
A7. In the central part, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 20-45 km/h.
Q8. What weather conditions are expected in the southern part of the Red Sea?
A8. The southern part will see southwesterly to northwesterly winds at 15-55 km/h, with waves possible up to two meters.
Q9. How will winds behave in the Arabian Gulf’s northern and central parts?
A9. Winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 15-35 km/h, with waves half a meter to one meter.
Q10. What wind shifts are expected in the southern part of the Arabian Gulf?
A10. In the southern Arabian Gulf, winds will shift in the evening to northwesterly to southeasterly at 10-25 km/h.
Q11. What is the state of the sea in the Arabian Gulf?
A11. The sea in the Arabian Gulf will be relatively calm on Sunday, with waves up to one meter.
Q12. Which regions are most at risk of flash floods?
A12. Jazan and Aseer are at risk of flash floods due to moderate to heavy thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds.
Q13. How can residents stay informed about weather updates?
A13. Residents should follow official channels such as the National Center for Meteorology and local authorities for updates.
Q14. What precautions should be taken during dust storms?
A14. During dusty conditions, it’s advisable to stay indoors, wear masks, and avoid driving unless necessary, as visibility may be severely reduced.
Q15. What is Vision 2030’s relevance to weather forecasting?
A15. Vision 2030 emphasizes quality of life and sustainability, and advanced weather forecasting supports public safety and resilience to climate impacts.
Q16. How does the NCM contribute to public safety in Saudi Arabia?
A16. The NCM provides timely weather warnings and data that help authorities and citizens prepare for hazardous conditions, reducing risks.
Q17. Are there any advisories for maritime activities in the Red Sea?
A17. As winds and waves may be strong, mariners should check latest forecasts and exercise caution, especially in southern parts where waves can exceed two meters.
Q18. What is the temperature forecast for the central regions?
A18. The forecast indicates hot to extremely hot temperatures in central regions like Riyadh and Qassim.
Q19. How can visitors to Saudi Arabia prepare for this weather?
A19. Visitors should check the forecast, pack appropriate clothing, and follow local guidance, especially in areas expecting rain or dust.
Q20. Does the forecast include any warnings for coastal areas?
A20. Yes, gusty winds in Madinah and Makkah coasts may reduce visibility to near zero, and coastal areas should be cautious.
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