NCM Warns of Rain, Hail, and Dust in Multiple Saudi Regions on Sunday

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather forecast for Sunday, February 16, 2025, warning of dust-stirring winds and moderate to heavy rain accompanied by hail in several regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The forecast covers parts of Makkah, Al-Baha, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, the Eastern Region, Northern Borders, and Al-Jouf, where residents should prepare for potentially adverse conditions.

Context and Background

The NCM, Saudi Arabia’s official meteorological authority, regularly issues detailed forecasts to ensure public safety and enable proactive measures. This weekend’s forecast reflects typical winter weather patterns in the region, where northern winds interact with moisture to produce rain and dust. The NCM’s timely warnings help citizens, residents, and travelers plan accordingly, minimizing disruption to daily life and economic activities.

Key Details

Light to moderate rain is expected in parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Madinah, with fog potentially forming in these areas as well as in parts of Tabuk. Winds over the Red Sea will be northerly to northwesterly in the northern and central parts, reaching speeds of 12–35 km/h, while the southern part of the Red Sea will experience southeasterly to southwesterly winds of 10–45 km/h. Wave heights may vary from half a meter to over two meters, resulting in a calm to choppy sea state. In the Arabian Gulf, northerly to northwesterly winds are expected at 12–50 km/h, with similar wave conditions and a calm to choppy sea.

Implications and Public Advisory

These weather conditions may affect travel and outdoor activities, particularly in regions prone to dust storms and flash flooding. The NCM advises residents and visitors in affected areas to exercise caution, avoid driving through flood-prone wadis, and follow updates from local authorities. The forecast also benefits sectors like aviation, maritime transport, and agriculture, enabling them to take preventive measures.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to public safety and modern infrastructure is a cornerstone of Vision 2030. The NCM’s advanced forecasting capabilities, supported by cutting-edge technology and international collaboration, exemplify the Kingdom’s drive to enhance quality of life and resilience to weather-related risks. By providing accurate, timely information, the NCM contributes to a safer, more prepared society aligned with the goals of Vision 2030.

20 Questions

Q1. Which Saudi agency issued the weather forecast for Sunday?

A1. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued the forecast, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Q2. What are the main weather warnings for Sunday?

A2. Dust-stirring winds, moderate to heavy rain, and hail are expected in several regions, including Makkah and Riyadh.

Q3. Which regions are forecast to receive moderate to heavy rain?

A3. Moderate to heavy rain is likely in Makkah, Al-Baha, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Region, Northern Borders, and Al-Jouf.

Q4. Where might light to moderate rain fall?

A4. Light to moderate rain is expected in parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, and Madinah.

Q5. Is fog expected anywhere?

A5. Yes, fog may form in parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, Madinah, and Tabuk.

Q6. What are the wind conditions over the Red Sea?

A6. Winds are northerly to northwesterly in the north and central Red Sea at 12–35 km/h, and southeasterly to southwesterly in the south at 10–45 km/h.

Q7. How high can waves be in the Red Sea?

A7. Waves may range from half a meter to over two meters.

Q8. What sea state is expected in the Red Sea?

A8. The sea will be calm to choppy.

Q9. What winds are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?

A9. Northerly to northwesterly winds at speeds of 12–50 km/h.

Q10. What wave heights are expected in the Arabian Gulf?

A10. Waves may reach from half a meter to over two meters.

Q11. Will the Arabian Gulf be calm?

A11. The sea will be calm to choppy, similar to the Red Sea.

Q12. How can the public stay safe during these conditions?

A12. The NCM advises caution, avoiding flood-prone areas and staying updated through official channels.

Q13. Does the forecast affect air travel?

A13. Yes, aviation authorities may adjust operations due to dust, rain, and reduced visibility.

Q14. What sectors benefit from NCM forecasts?

A14. Aviation, maritime transport, agriculture, and tourism benefit from timely weather information.

Q15. How does this forecast relate to Vision 2030?

A15. Vision 2030 emphasizes public safety and modern infrastructure; accurate forecasting enhances resilience and quality of life.

Q16. When was the forecast released?

A16. The forecast was released on Sunday, February 16, 2025, by the NCM via SPA.

Q17. What is the NCM’s role in Saudi Arabia?

A17. The NCM is the official meteorological authority responsible for weather monitoring and forecasting across the Kingdom.

Q18. Are there any warnings for drivers?

A18. Yes, drivers are advised to avoid wadis and areas prone to flash flooding due to heavy rain.

Q19. Can fog affect visibility?

A19. Yes, fog may reduce visibility in parts of Najran, Jazan, Aseer, Madinah, and Tabuk.

Q20. Where can the public find updates?

A20. The public can follow updates from the NCM’s official website and social media channels, as well as local authorities.

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