NCM: Light Rain Expected in Makkah and Al-Jumum

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued a weather warning on September 17, 2026, forecasting light rain across Makkah and Al-Jumum Governorate, accompanied by gusty winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms, with conditions expected to persist until 8:00 pm local time. The advisory, released through official Saudi channels, forms part of the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to public safety and transparent, timely communication with residents, pilgrims, and visitors in the holy city and its surrounding areas.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring atmospheric conditions, issuing forecasts, and delivering early warnings across the Kingdom. Its work supports a wide range of sectors, from aviation and agriculture to public health and religious pilgrimage operations.

Makkah holds a unique place in the Islamic world as the destination of the annual Hajj and the year-round Umrah pilgrimage, drawing millions of international visitors. Weather advisories in the region therefore carry significance that extends well beyond local concerns, informing the planning of pilgrims, transport operators, and emergency services alike.

Al-Jumum Governorate, located west of Makkah, is similarly integrated into the broader infrastructure and service network that supports the region’s residents and visitors throughout the year.

Key Details

According to the NCM announcement, the expected conditions include light rain, gusty winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms. The advisory states that these conditions will persist until 8:00 pm local time, giving residents and visitors a clear window in which to take appropriate precautions.

Reduced horizontal visibility can affect road travel and outdoor activities, while gusty winds and thunderstorms may influence conditions in open areas. The NCM regularly issues such advisories to help the public plan safely, and its guidance is circulated through official Saudi media, including the Saudi Press Agency.

Travellers in and around Makkah are encouraged to monitor official updates, allow additional time for journeys, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.

Implications and Impact

For pilgrims performing Umrah, the forecast highlights the importance of preparation and awareness. The Kingdom’s authorities routinely coordinate across ministries and agencies to ensure that weather events do not disrupt the safe and comfortable experience of the millions who visit the holy sites each year.

Regionally, timely meteorological warnings support transport networks, utility providers, and emergency response teams in maintaining continuity of service. Accurate forecasting is a foundational element of modern urban management, particularly in cities that host large and dynamic populations such as Makkah.

The advisory also reflects the broader strengthening of Saudi Arabia’s meteorological capabilities, which increasingly rely on advanced monitoring technologies, data analysis, and international cooperation.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This weather advisory underscores the Kingdom’s wider progress under Vision 2030, which prioritizes quality of life, public safety, and world-class services for citizens, residents, and the guests of God. Investments in science, technology, and institutional capacity continue to enhance the accuracy and reach of early warning systems, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains a global leader in pilgrimage management and disaster preparedness.

20 Questions

Q1. What did the National Center for Meteorology forecast for Makkah?

A1. The NCM forecast light rain in Makkah and Al-Jumum Governorate, accompanied by gusty winds, reduced horizontal visibility, and thunderstorms, with conditions expected to persist until 8:00 pm local time.

Q2. When was the weather warning issued?

A2. The warning was issued on September 17, 2026, and was circulated through official Saudi channels, including the Saudi Press Agency, to inform the public promptly.

Q3. Which areas are covered by the advisory?

A3. The advisory covers Makkah and Al-Jumum Governorate, two areas within the western region of Saudi Arabia that host residents, pilgrims, and visitors throughout the year.

Q4. What is the National Center for Meteorology?

A4. The NCM is the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring weather conditions, issuing forecasts, and providing early warnings to protect public safety across the Kingdom.

Q5. Until what time are the conditions expected to persist?

A5. According to the NCM announcement, the conditions are expected to persist until 8:00 pm local time, giving residents and visitors a clear timeframe for taking precautions.

Q6. What does reduced horizontal visibility mean for travellers?

A6. Reduced horizontal visibility can affect road travel and outdoor activities, so travellers are advised to allow extra time for journeys and follow guidance from local authorities.

Q7. Why is weather monitoring important in Makkah?

A7. Makkah hosts millions of pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah, so accurate weather monitoring helps authorities ensure safety, manage crowds, and maintain smooth operations at the holy sites.

Q8. How does the NCM share its warnings with the public?

A8. The NCM shares warnings through official Saudi media, including the Saudi Press Agency, as well as digital platforms, ensuring timely and reliable communication with residents and visitors.

Q9. What precautions should pilgrims take during such weather?

A9. Pilgrims should monitor official updates, carry appropriate clothing, allow extra travel time, and follow instructions from local authorities to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Q10. Does this warning affect Hajj or Umrah operations?

A10. The advisory supports planning for pilgrimage operations. Saudi authorities routinely coordinate across agencies to ensure weather events do not disrupt the safety and comfort of pilgrims.

Q11. What role does the Saudi Press Agency play?

A11. The Saudi Press Agency is the official national news agency that disseminates government announcements and public advisories, ensuring accurate and timely information reaches the public.

Q12. Are thunderstorms common in Makkah during this period?

A12. Weather patterns in the region can include thunderstorms at certain times of the year. The NCM monitors these conditions closely and issues advisories as needed.

Q13. How does this advisory reflect Saudi Arabia’s preparedness?

A13. The timely issuance of the advisory reflects the Kingdom’s strong institutional capacity, advanced monitoring technologies, and commitment to public safety under Vision 2030.

Q14. What should residents of Al-Jumum Governorate do?

A14. Residents should stay informed through official channels, take precautions during gusty winds and reduced visibility, and follow any instructions issued by local authorities.

Q15. How does Vision 2030 relate to meteorology services?

A15. Vision 2030 emphasizes quality of life and world-class services. Investments in science and technology enhance the accuracy and reach of early warning systems, benefiting residents and pilgrims alike.

Q16. What technology does the NCM use for forecasting?

A16. The NCM utilizes advanced monitoring technologies, data analysis tools, and international cooperation to produce accurate forecasts and timely warnings for the Kingdom.

Q17. Will the weather affect transportation in Makkah?

A17. Reduced visibility and gusty winds may affect road travel. Authorities advise allowing extra time and following official guidance to ensure safety on the roads.

Q18. How can visitors stay updated on weather conditions?

A18. Visitors can stay updated by following official Saudi media, the Saudi Press Agency, and NCM announcements, which provide reliable and timely information.

Q19. What is the significance of the 8:00 pm end time?

A19. The 8:00 pm end time provides a clear window for the public to plan activities safely and for authorities to coordinate any necessary response measures.

Q20. How does this advisory support Saudi Arabia’s global role?

A20. By ensuring the safety and comfort of pilgrims and residents, the advisory supports Saudi Arabia’s role as a responsible global leader in pilgrimage management and public safety.

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