NCM Forecasts Thunderstorms and Heat Across Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia, forecasting thunderstorm rains accompanied by hail and active winds in parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and the southern highlands of Makkah on August 16, 2026. According to the official Saudi Press Agency, the weather will remain hot to severely hot in the Eastern Province and parts of Riyadh and Qassim. Active winds stirring dust and sand are expected to continue in these regions and extend to parts of the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Tabuk, Madinah, and parts of Najran, potentially causing near-zero visibility in parts of Makkah, especially coastal areas.

Context and Background

The NCM is the official Saudi government agency responsible for weather forecasting and monitoring. Its daily reports are crucial for public safety, aviation, maritime operations, and agriculture. The forecast comes during the summer season when the Arabian Peninsula experiences extreme heat. The reported thunderstorms in the southwestern highlands are typical for this period, influenced by seasonal monsoon winds. The NCM’s warnings about dust storms are particularly important for residents and travelers, as reduced visibility can disrupt road and air traffic. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 includes enhancing environmental monitoring and public safety infrastructure, and the NCM plays a vital role in these efforts.

Key Details of the Forecast

For the Red Sea, surface winds will be northwesterly to westerly at 15-35 km/h in the northern and central parts, reaching up to 45 km/h in the central part. In the southern part, winds will be southwesterly to northwesterly at 15-40 km/h, increasing to 55 km/h with thunderclouds. Wave heights will range from 0.5 to 1.5 meters, reaching over 2.5 meters in the central part. Sea conditions will be light to moderate, becoming choppy in the central part with thunderclouds. For the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northeasterly to northwesterly at 15-34 km/h in the north, and southeasterly to northeasterly at 10-23 km/h in the central and southern parts. Waves will be 0.5 to 1 meter high, with light sea conditions. The NCM advises caution and urges the public to follow safety instructions during adverse weather.

Implications and Impact

These weather conditions have significant implications for maritime activities in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, as well as for local communities. The strong winds and high waves may affect shipping and fishing, while thunderstorms and hail could cause temporary disruptions in affected areas. Dust storms reducing visibility can impact road safety and flight operations. The NCM’s timely alerts enable citizens and residents to take necessary precautions. The Kingdom’s airports and ports are equipped with advanced systems to manage such conditions, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s investment in resilient infrastructure. Additionally, the southern highlands’ rainfall is beneficial for agriculture and water resources, supporting the nation’s food security goals.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This weather report underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to public safety and environmental sustainability, core pillars of Vision 2030. The NCM’s advanced forecasting capabilities support the Kingdom’s ambition to be a global leader in environmental monitoring and climate resilience. By providing accurate and timely information, Saudi Arabia empowers its citizens and visitors, contributes to economic stability, and enhances the quality of life. As the Kingdom implements Vision 2030, such services will continue to evolve, leveraging technology to protect people and property while fostering a sustainable future. The NCM’s work represents a vital component of the national efforts to build a resilient and prosperous Saudi Arabia.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the source of the weather forecast?

A1. The forecast is based on a report from the Saudi National Center for Meteorology (NCM) released through the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Q2. Which regions will experience thunderstorms?

A2. Thunderstorm rains are expected in parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, and the southern highlands of Makkah.

Q3. What weather conditions are predicted for the Eastern Province?

A3. The Eastern Province will experience hot to severely hot weather with active winds that may cause dust and sand to reduce visibility.

Q4. Are there any weather warnings for coastal areas?

A4. Yes, parts of Makkah, especially coastal areas, may see near-zero visibility due to dust and sand storms.

Q5. What is the wind speed forecast for the Red Sea’s central part?

A5. Wind speeds in the central part of the Red Sea may reach up to 45 km/h, with waves over 2.5 meters high.

Q6. How will the Arabian Gulf be affected?

A6. The Arabian Gulf will be generally calm, with light winds and waves between 0.5 and 1 meter, and no severe weather expected.

Q7. Why are dust storms a concern?

A7. Dust storms can drastically reduce visibility, posing risks to road safety, aviation, and outdoor activities.

Q8. How does the NCM monitor weather conditions?

A8. The NCM uses a network of observation stations, satellite imagery, and advanced models to monitor and forecast weather.

Q9. What should citizens do during adverse weather?

A9. Citizens should follow official safety instructions, avoid unnecessary travel during dust storms, and heed any warnings from authorities.

Q10. Are there any expected impacts on agriculture?

A10. Rainfall in the southern highlands can benefit agriculture by providing water, but hail may damage crops, so farmers need to take precautions.

Q11. How does this forecast relate to Vision 2030?

A11. The forecast aligns with Vision 2030’s focus on public safety, environmental sustainability, and advanced infrastructure for weather monitoring.

Q12. What is the role of the Saudi Press Agency in this?

A12. The Saudi Press Agency disseminates official reports from government agencies like the NCM to ensure accurate and timely public information.

Q13. How can residents stay updated on weather changes?

A13. Residents can follow the NCM’s official alerts via its website and social media channels, as well as local news outlets.

Q14. What are the typical summer weather patterns in Saudi Arabia?

A14. Summer typically brings high heat, dry conditions, and occasional thunderstorms in the southwest due to monsoon influences.

Q15. Are there any specific warnings for the Red Sea?

A15. Mariners should be aware of strong winds and high waves in the central Red Sea, especially with thunderclouds forming in the south.

Q16. What precautions should travelers take?

A16. Travelers should check the latest weather updates, avoid non-essential travel during severe conditions, and adjust plans accordingly.

Q17. How does this weather affect daily life in affected areas?

A17. It may cause temporary disruptions in outdoor work, school activities, and transport, so people should plan accordingly.

Q18. Is there any impact on flights at regional airports?

A18. Reduced visibility from dust could affect flight schedules, but airports are equipped to handle such conditions with standard procedures.

Q19. How does the NCM contribute to regional safety?

A19. By providing accurate forecasts, the NCM helps authorities prepare for emergencies and reduces risks to life and property.

Q20. What is the overall outlook for the next few days?

A20. The NCM will continue to monitor and update its forecasts, with prevailing hot weather and isolated thunderstorms likely over the coming days.

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