Saudi Arabia’s NCM Forecasts Thunderstorms and Dust Storms

The Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its daily weather forecast for Tuesday, August 18, 2026, indicating continued thunderstorms accompanied by hail and active winds across parts of the Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha regions. The report also warns of high temperatures in parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh, while active winds stirring dust and sand are expected to affect parts of those regions, as well as parts of Najran, Madinah, and Makkah, potentially reducing horizontal visibility to near zero along the southern coastal parts of Makkah.

Context and Background

The NCM’s daily weather bulletins are part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to public safety and timely information dissemination. The Kingdom’s advanced meteorological infrastructure, including a network of monitoring stations and satellite systems, enables accurate and localized forecasts. These efforts align with the Saudi Vision 2030 goal of enhancing the quality of life and ensuring the well-being of citizens, residents, and pilgrims, especially during the summer months when weather conditions can be extreme.

Key Details

According to the NCM report, surface wind movement over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 15–35 km/h, reaching up to 45 km/h over the central part and exceeding 50 km/h with the formation of rainy thunderclouds over the southern part. Wave heights will range from half a meter to 1.5 meters, exceeding two meters over the central part with the formation of rainy thunderclouds in the south, resulting in sea conditions ranging from light to moderate, and becoming rough over the central part with thunderclouds in the south.

Over the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at 15–35 km/h in the northern part, and southeasterly to northeasterly at 10–28 km/h in the central and southern parts. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter, with light sea conditions.

Implications and Impact

The forecast highlights the potential for reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions in affected areas, particularly in the southern coastal parts of Makkah. Such weather patterns can also impact maritime activities, including shipping and fishing, especially on the Red Sea where wave heights may exceed two meters in some areas. For residents and travelers, these updates are crucial for planning daily activities and ensuring safety, especially in regions prone to dust storms and heavy rainfall.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The NCM’s accurate and timely reporting reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to utilizing advanced technology and data-driven approaches, which are key pillars of Vision 2030. By prioritizing public safety and providing essential meteorological services, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its quality of life standards, support sustainable development, and safeguard the well-being of its people and visitors, contributing to the realization of a vibrant and resilient society.

20 Questions

Q1. Who issued the weather forecast for August 18, 2026?

A1. The forecast was issued by the Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the official meteorological authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Q2. What are the main weather warnings for the southern regions?

A2. Thunderstorms accompanied by hail and active winds are expected in parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, potentially causing localized flooding and hazardous road conditions.

Q3. Which regions in the Kingdom will experience high temperatures?

A3. The Eastern Province and parts of Riyadh are expected to see elevated maximum temperatures, urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

Q4. What weather conditions are predicted in Najran, Madinah, and Makkah?

A4. Active winds stirring dust and sand are forecast, with near-zero horizontal visibility along the southern coastal parts of Makkah.

Q5. What is the expected wind speed over the Red Sea?

A5. Wind speeds over the Red Sea will be 15–35 km/h, reaching up to 50 km/h or more with the formation of rainy thunderclouds in the south.

Q6. How high can waves reach over the Red Sea?

A6. Wave heights over the Red Sea range from half a meter to 1.5 meters, exceeding two meters over the central part with thunderclouds.

Q7. What are the sea conditions over the Arabian Gulf?

A7. Wind speeds range from 10–35 km/h depending on location, with wave heights from half a meter to one meter, and light sea conditions.

Q8. Why is it important to monitor the NCM’s daily forecasts?

A8. Daily forecasts help residents, travelers, and authorities prepare for adverse weather, ensuring safety and minimizing disruptions to daily life and economic activities.

Q9. How does Saudi Arabia’s meteorological infrastructure contribute to public safety?

A9. The NCM uses advanced monitoring stations and satellite systems to provide accurate forecasts, aiding in disaster preparedness and reducing weather-related risks.

Q10. What precautions should drivers take in areas with reduced visibility?

A10. Drivers should reduce speed, use headlights, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid accidents caused by low visibility due to dust and sand.

Q11. How might the weather conditions affect maritime activities in the Red Sea?

A11. The forecast of high waves and strong winds could pose risks to small vessels, shipping, and fishing; authorities may need to enforce safety measures.

Q12. What is the impact of thunderstorms on the southern regions?

A12. Thunderstorms could lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas, affecting transportation and agriculture, and posing risks to residents.

Q13. How does Vision 2030 relate to meteorological services?

A13. Vision 2030 emphasizes innovation and technological advancement, and the NCM’s use of modern tech aligns with the kingdom’s goal of building a knowledge-based economy.

Q14. Why is the NCM’s forecast considered reliable?

A14. The NCM relies on sophisticated data collection and analysis, making its forecasts highly reliable for public and official use.

Q15. Are there any special weather concerns for pilgrims in Makkah?

A15. With near-zero visibility in southern coastal parts of Makkah, pilgrims and visitors should exercise caution when traveling between holy sites.

Q16. What is the weather outlook for the Eastern Province?

A16. High temperatures are expected, so residents should stay hydrated and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during peak hours.

Q17. How often does the NCM update its forecasts?

A17. The NCM provides daily updates and issues special warnings when severe weather is imminent, ensuring timely information.

Q18. Can the dust storms affect air quality?

A18. Yes, dust storms can significantly reduce air quality, aggravating respiratory conditions; protective measures are advised.

Q19. What is the significance of the sea condition reports?

A19. Sea condition reports are crucial for fishermen, maritime transport, and coastal industries to ensure safe operations.

Q20. Where can the public access detailed weather information?

A20. The NCM provides official updates through its website, mobile app, and media outlets, ensuring wide accessibility.

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