NCM Forecasts Moderate to Heavy Rains Across Saudi Arabia Starting Sunday

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast moderate to heavy rain across most regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, beginning Sunday, January 5, and continuing through Wednesday, January 8, 2025. The NCM, Saudi Arabia’s official meteorological authority, issued the alert on Saturday, warning of strong winds reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h that could stir up dust, along with potential torrential rain, hail, and high waves along coastal areas.

Context and Background

This weather event is part of the Kingdom’s seasonal climatic patterns, monitored closely by the NCM to ensure public safety and preparedness. The forecast covers a wide geographic scope, including the regions of Tabuk, Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Madinah, Makkah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Province, Al-Baha, and Aseer. The NCM’s advanced monitoring systems and daily reports enable timely warnings, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s investment in modern meteorological infrastructure.

Regional Timing and Affected Areas

According to the NCM, rainfall will begin in the Tabuk and Madinah regions on Sunday and Monday. Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders will experience rain from Sunday evening through Tuesday, while Hail and Qassim will be affected on Monday and Tuesday. The Riyadh Region will see rain from Monday to Wednesday, and the Eastern Region on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Makkah region will be impacted on Monday and Tuesday. This staggered schedule allows residents to plan accordingly and follow official guidance.

Safety Advisory and Public Guidance

The NCM has urged all individuals to stay updated on weather conditions by consulting daily reports on its official website, the “Anwaa” application, and its social media accounts. For safety, the center also advises that instructions issued by relevant authorities—including the General Directorate of Civil Defense—be carefully followed. This proactive approach underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting lives and property during adverse weather.

Implications and Impact

This rainfall event is expected to bring welcome relief to some areas, potentially benefiting agriculture and water resources, though it also poses risks such as flash flooding and reduced visibility due to dust storms. The NCM’s timely warnings align with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience, supporting economic activities like transportation and logistics.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) forecasting for Saudi Arabia?

A1. The NCM forecasts moderate to heavy rain across most regions of the Kingdom from Sunday, January 5, to Wednesday, January 8, 2025, along with strong winds, hail, and high waves.

Q2. When does the forecasted rain period begin and end?

A2. The rain period starts on Sunday, January 5, 2025, and continues until Wednesday, January 8, 2025, as announced by the NCM.

Q3. Which regions are expected to experience moderate to heavy rain?

A3. The affected regions include Tabuk, Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Madinah, Makkah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Province, Al-Baha, and Aseer.

Q4. What wind speeds are forecasted during this period?

A4. Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h are expected, which may stir up dust and reduce visibility in some areas.

Q5. What additional weather phenomena are possible?

A5. Torrential rain, hail, and high waves along the coasts are possible, according to the NCM’s advisory.

Q6. How is the NCM helping residents stay informed?

A6. The NCM provides updates through its website daily reports, the “Anwaa” application, and its social media accounts.

Q7. What safety advice has the NCM issued?

A7. The NCM advises individuals to follow instructions from relevant authorities and stay updated on weather conditions for safety.

Q8. Which regions will see rain on Sunday and Monday?

A8. The Tabuk and Madinah regions will see rain on Sunday and Monday, as per the NCM forecast.

Q9. When will Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders receive rain?

A9. Rain in Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders is expected from Sunday evening through Tuesday.

Q10. Which regions will be affected on Monday and Tuesday?

A10. Hail, Qassim, and Makkah regions are forecasted to be affected on Monday and Tuesday.

Q11. How long will rain continue in the Riyadh Region?

A11. The Riyadh Region is expected to experience rain from Monday to Wednesday.

Q12. When is the Eastern Region forecasted to receive rain?

A12. The Eastern Region will see rain on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Q13. What are the potential impacts of the forecasted rain?

A13. Rain may benefit agriculture and water resources but could also cause flash flooding, dust storms, and coastal hazards.

Q14. How does the NCM’s forecast reflect Saudi Arabia’s capabilities?

A14. It demonstrates the Kingdom’s advanced meteorological monitoring and commitment to public safety through timely warnings.

Q15. Are there any specific advisory apps mentioned by the NCM?

A15. Yes, the NCM recommends using the “Anwaa” application for real-time weather updates.

A16. The NCM has urged the public to follow instructions from the General Directorate of Civil Defense and other relevant authorities for safety.

Q17. What is the significance of the NCM’s role in this forecast?

A17. The NCM is Saudi Arabia’s official meteorological body, ensuring accurate forecasts and risk communication for public welfare.

Q18. How can residents access the NCM’s daily reports?

A18. Residents can access the reports on the NCM’s official website, the “Anwaa” app, and its social media platforms.

Q19. What steps does the NCM advise for safety during heavy rain?

A19. The center advises staying indoors, avoiding flood-prone areas, and strictly following all instructions from authorities.

Q20. How does this forecast support Vision 2030?

A20. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing disaster readiness, protecting infrastructure, and promoting sustainable water resource management.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This forecast and the NCM’s proactive public awareness efforts align with Vision 2030 by strengthening national resilience and safety infrastructure. By leveraging advanced technology and clear communication, Saudi Arabia is building a society prepared for environmental challenges while supporting sustainable development goals, including water security and disaster risk reduction.

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