Saudi NCM Forecasts Hot Weather, Thunderstorms for Monday

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued its daily forecast for Monday, August 10, 2026, indicating that hot to very hot weather will persist across parts of the Eastern Region, Riyadh, Qassim, and the Northern Borders, while thunderstorm activity with hail remains likely over parts of Najran, Jazan, and Aseer. The report, released through official Saudi channels, also warns of active winds raising dust and sand in those areas, as well as in parts of Makkah and Madinah regions. Thunderclouds accompanied by strong winds are expected over the eastern and southeastern parts of the Kingdom, with fog possible overnight and in the early morning hours along coastal areas and parts of the Tabuk coast.

Context and Background

The National Center of Meteorology is the authoritative body responsible for weather monitoring and forecasting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its daily reports provide essential information for citizens, residents, and visitors, helping them plan daily activities and take necessary precautions. The center operates a sophisticated network of meteorological stations and radar systems, ensuring accurate and timely updates. This particular forecast is part of the NCM’s ongoing commitment to public safety and aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to enhance quality of life and protect communities through advanced early warning systems.

Weather patterns in Saudi Arabia during August are typically characterized by intense heat in central and eastern regions, while the southwestern highlands experience monsoon-related thunderstorms. The NCM’s detailed forecasts enable authorities to issue advisories and coordinate with relevant agencies, such as civil defense and health services, to mitigate any potential risks. This approach reflects the Kingdom’s proactive stance on disaster risk reduction and climate resilience, which are integral to its Vision 2030 goals.

Key Details

According to the NCM report, surface winds over the Red Sea will blow from the northwest to southwest at speeds of 10 to 30 km/h, reaching up to 40 km/h over the central and southern parts, and up to 50 km/h with the formation of thunderclouds in the south. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter in the north, and from half a meter to one and a half meters in the central and southern parts, exceeding two meters during thunderstorms in the south. The sea state will be slight in the north, slight to moderate in the central and southern parts, and rough with thunderclouds in the south.

Over the Arabian Gulf, winds will be from the northeast to southeast at 10 to 28 km/h, reaching up to 50 km/h with thunderclouds in the central and southern parts. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter, exceeding two meters during thunderstorms in the central and southern parts. The sea state will be slight, becoming rough with thunderclouds in the central and southern parts.

The report also highlights the likelihood of fog formation during the night and early morning hours along the coastal areas of the eastern and southeastern regions, as well as parts of the Tabuk coast. This could affect visibility and require caution for motorists and maritime activities.

Implications and Impact

The forecast has several implications for daily life and economic activities. In the hot regions, residents and workers are advised to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours. The thunderstorm activity in the southwest may lead to flash floods in valleys, prompting local authorities to remain on alert. The dust-raising winds could reduce air quality and visibility, particularly in open areas and on highways, necessitating careful driving.

Maritime conditions in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf will be varied, with rough seas expected during thunderstorms. Fishermen and sailors are urged to exercise caution and monitor updates from the NCM. The potential for fog along coastal areas may disrupt marine navigation and road traffic in those regions.

Overall, the NCM’s timely and detailed forecast demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s advanced meteorological capabilities and its dedication to public safety. It also underscores the importance of regional cooperation in weather monitoring, as weather systems often transcend national borders.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The National Center of Meteorology’s work is closely aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes enhancing quality of life, ensuring public safety, and fostering sustainable development. By providing accurate and timely weather forecasts, the NCM supports key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and transportation, helping them operate efficiently and safely. Moreover, the center’s investments in technology and innovation reflect the Vision’s goal of building a knowledge-based economy and improving government services. As the Kingdom continues to grow and attract international events, reliable meteorological services will play an increasingly vital role in showcasing Saudi Arabia’s readiness and resilience on the global stage.

20 Questions

Q1. What does the National Center of Meteorology forecast for Monday, August 10, 2026?

A1. The NCM forecasts hot to very hot weather in parts of the Eastern Region, Riyadh, Qassim, and Northern Borders, with possible thunderstorms and hail in Najran, Jazan, and Aseer, and active dust-raising winds in several areas.

Q2. Which regions are expected to experience thunderstorms and hail?

A2. Thunderstorms accompanied by hail are likely over parts of Najran, Jazan, and Aseer regions in southwestern Saudi Arabia, according to the NCM report.

Q3. What is the expected wind speed over the Red Sea?

A3. Surface winds over the Red Sea will be from the northwest to southwest at 10 to 30 km/h, reaching up to 40 km/h in the central and southern parts, and up to 50 km/h with thunderclouds in the south.

Q4. How high will waves be on the Red Sea?

A4. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter in the north, and from half a meter to one and a half meters in the central and southern parts, exceeding two meters during thunderstorms in the south.

Q5. What will the sea state be like on the Red Sea?

A5. The sea state will be slight in the north, slight to moderate in the central and southern parts, and rough with thunderclouds in the southern part.

Q6. What are the wind conditions expected over the Arabian Gulf?

A6. Winds over the Arabian Gulf will be from the northeast to southeast at 10 to 28 km/h, reaching up to 50 km/h with thunderclouds in the central and southern parts.

Q7. What wave heights are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?

A7. Wave heights will range from half a meter to one meter, exceeding two meters during thunderstorms in the central and southern parts.

Q8. What is the expected sea state on the Arabian Gulf?

A8. The sea state will be slight, becoming rough with the formation of thunderclouds in the central and southern parts.

Q9. Where might fog form during the night and early morning?

A9. Fog may form over coastal parts of the eastern and southeastern regions, as well as parts of the Tabuk coast, according to the NCM report.

Q10. What precautions should residents take in hot areas?

A10. Residents should stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and follow health advisories to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Q11. How can the public access the NCM forecast?

A11. The public can access the forecast through official NCM channels, including its website and social media accounts, as well as through official Saudi news agencies.

Q12. What is the role of the National Center of Meteorology?

A12. The NCM is responsible for monitoring weather conditions, issuing forecasts and warnings, and providing meteorological services to support public safety and various sectors in Saudi Arabia.

Q13. How does the NCM contribute to Vision 2030?

A13. The NCM supports Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, ensuring public safety, and enabling sectors like tourism and transportation through accurate weather information and advanced technology.

Q14. Are there any warnings for maritime activities?

A14. Yes, sailors and fishermen are advised to exercise caution due to rough seas expected during thunderstorms in the southern Red Sea and parts of the Arabian Gulf.

Q15. What impact might the weather have on daily activities?

A15. The hot weather may affect outdoor activities, while thunderstorms could cause flash floods in valleys, and dust may reduce visibility, requiring adjustments to daily plans.

Q16. Which areas will experience dust-raising winds?

A16. Dust-raising winds are expected in parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, Makkah, and Madinah regions, as well as the eastern and southeastern parts of the Kingdom.

Q17. What is the expected temperature trend for Monday?

A17. Temperatures will be hot to very hot in the Eastern Region, Riyadh, Qassim, and Northern Borders, typical for August in these areas.

Q18. How does the NCM ensure accurate forecasts?

A18. The NCM uses a network of meteorological stations, radar systems, and satellite data, along with international cooperation, to produce accurate and timely forecasts.

Q19. What should drivers do during fog and dust?

A19. Drivers should reduce speed, use fog lights, maintain safe distances, and avoid unnecessary travel during low visibility conditions caused by fog or dust.

Q20. Where can one find updates on weather conditions?

A20. Updates are available through the NCM’s official platforms and official Saudi news agencies, ensuring the public receives reliable and timely information.

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