Saudi Arabia Weather Forecast: Thunderstorms Expected Monday

Riyadh, September 21, 2026 — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a detailed weather forecast for Monday, warning of moderate to heavy thunderstorms, flash floods, and hail in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, while light to moderate rain showers are expected in parts of Madinah Region. The center also cautioned that gusty, dust-stirring winds will affect these areas as well as parts of Riyadh, Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders regions. The forecast, released via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), provides essential guidance for residents, travelers, and authorities as the Kingdom continues to prioritize public safety and infrastructure resilience under Vision 2030.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring weather patterns and issuing timely alerts across the Kingdom. Its forecasts are critical for a country that spans diverse climatic zones, from the mountainous regions of Aseer and Al-Baha to the coastal areas of Jazan and the vast desert expanses of the Northern Borders. Monday’s forecast highlights the ongoing seasonal weather patterns that can bring sudden downpours and flash floods, particularly in the southwestern highlands. These conditions are not uncommon during this time of year, but the NCM’s precise predictions enable proactive measures to protect lives and property. The center’s work aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and climate resilience, key components of the Quality of Life Program under Vision 2030.

Key Details

According to the NCM, moderate to heavy thunderstorms are expected in Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, with the potential for flash floods and hail. These conditions could impact travel and outdoor activities, and residents are advised to stay informed through official channels. In Madinah Region, light to moderate rain showers are forecast, offering welcome moisture to the area. Gusty, dust-stirring winds are also expected in parts of these regions, as well as in Riyadh, Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders, which may reduce visibility and affect air quality. Over the Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 20-40 km/h, with waves ranging from one and a half to two meters; the sea will be relatively calm. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northerly to northwesterly at 10-30 km/h, with waves of half a meter to one meter, and calm sea conditions. These marine forecasts are vital for fishermen, shipping, and coastal tourism.

Implications and Impact

The forecasted weather conditions have significant implications for various sectors. In the affected regions, authorities may need to activate emergency response plans to mitigate flash flood risks, particularly in low-lying areas and valleys. Travelers should exercise caution on roads, especially in mountainous terrain where visibility may be reduced by dust and rain. The agricultural sector could benefit from rainfall in Madinah, while the dust-stirring winds may pose challenges for those with respiratory conditions. On the positive side, the relatively calm seas in both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are favorable for maritime activities, supporting Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism and fisheries industries. The NCM’s timely and accurate forecasts underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging science and technology for public safety, a cornerstone of its modernization journey.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This weather forecast exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to environmental management and public welfare, directly supporting Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing quality of life and building resilient infrastructure. By providing accurate, real-time meteorological data, the National Center for Meteorology contributes to the safety of citizens and visitors alike, while enabling sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and transportation to operate efficiently. As the Kingdom continues to develop smart cities and sustainable communities, investments in advanced weather monitoring and early warning systems will play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s progress and ensuring a prosperous future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What regions are expected to experience moderate to heavy thunderstorms on Monday?

A1. According to the National Center for Meteorology, moderate to heavy thunderstorms are expected in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, and Makkah regions, with potential flash floods and hail.

Q2. What additional weather phenomenon is forecast alongside the thunderstorms?

A2. The NCM warns of flash floods and hail accompanying the thunderstorms, which could impact travel and outdoor activities in the affected regions.

Q3. Which region will see light to moderate rain showers?

A3. Parts of Madinah Region are expected to receive light to moderate rain showers, providing beneficial moisture to the area.

Q4. Where are gusty, dust-stirring winds expected?

A4. Gusty, dust-stirring winds are expected in parts of the thunderstorm regions as well as Riyadh, Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders regions.

Q5. What are the wind conditions over the Red Sea?

A5. Winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 20-40 km/h, with waves ranging from one and a half to two meters, and the sea relatively calm.

Q6. What are the wind and wave conditions in the Arabian Gulf?

A6. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northerly to northwesterly at 10-30 km/h, with waves of half a meter to one meter, and calm sea conditions.

Q7. Which authority issued this weather forecast?

A7. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the official Saudi authority responsible for weather monitoring and public alerts.

Q8. How does this forecast benefit public safety?

A8. The NCM’s timely warnings enable authorities and residents to take precautionary measures, reducing risks from flash floods, hail, and dust storms.

Q9. What should residents in affected areas do to stay safe?

A9. Residents should monitor official updates, avoid low-lying areas during heavy rain, and exercise caution while driving in reduced visibility conditions.

Q10. How might the weather affect travel in the mountainous regions?

A10. In mountainous areas like Aseer and Al-Baha, heavy rain and hail can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Q11. What impact could the dust-stirring winds have on health?

A11. Dust-stirring winds can exacerbate respiratory conditions, so individuals with asthma or allergies should limit outdoor exposure and use protective measures.

Q12. Are the sea conditions favorable for maritime activities?

A12. Yes, both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are expected to be relatively calm, which is favorable for fishing, shipping, and coastal tourism.

Q13. How does this forecast align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?

A13. It supports Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program by enhancing disaster preparedness, protecting lives, and enabling sectors like tourism and agriculture to operate safely.

Q14. What role does the Saudi Press Agency play in disseminating this information?

A14. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) is the official news outlet that published the NCM’s forecast, ensuring accurate and timely information reaches the public.

Q15. Could the rainfall in Madinah benefit local agriculture?

A15. Yes, light to moderate rain in Madinah can provide welcome moisture for crops and vegetation, supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Q16. How often does the NCM issue weather forecasts?

A16. The NCM issues regular forecasts and alerts, typically daily or as conditions evolve, to keep the public informed of changing weather patterns.

Q17. What precautions should fishermen take given the marine forecast?

A17. Fishermen should note the relatively calm seas but remain cautious of wind speeds up to 40 km/h in the Red Sea, ensuring vessels are secure.

Q18. Will the dust-stirring winds affect air quality in Riyadh?

A18. Yes, dust-stirring winds in Riyadh may temporarily reduce air quality, so residents with respiratory issues should take necessary precautions.

Q19. How can the public access real-time weather updates?

A19. The public can follow the NCM’s official channels and the Saudi Press Agency for real-time updates and safety advisories.

Q20. What does this forecast reveal about Saudi Arabia’s meteorological capabilities?

A20. It demonstrates the Kingdom’s advanced meteorological infrastructure and commitment to using science and technology for public safety and sustainable development.

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