Riyadh, May 23, 2024 — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather forecast indicating that strong winds, moderate to heavy rain, and hail may affect parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, extending to the highlands of Makkah. The center also reported that winds over the Red Sea will be westerly to northwesterly, reaching speeds of 15-35 km/h, with waves ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters, resulting in relatively calm sea conditions. In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be northwesterly to northeasterly at speeds of 10-30 km/h, with waves reaching half a meter to a meter, and calm seas expected.
Context and Background
The National Center for Meteorology is the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring weather patterns and issuing forecasts to ensure public safety and support key sectors such as aviation, maritime, and agriculture. This forecast comes as part of the center’s daily updates, which are vital for residents, pilgrims, and businesses across the Kingdom. The regions mentioned—Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha—are located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, known for their mountainous terrain and occasional severe weather during transitional seasons. The extension to the highlands of Makkah highlights the potential impact on areas that host millions of pilgrims annually.
Key Details
According to the NCM, the affected areas can expect strong winds and precipitation that may include hail. In Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, residents should be prepared for moderate to heavy rain, which could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas. The highlands of Makkah may also experience similar conditions. Maritime conditions are relatively favorable: the Red Sea will see westerly to northwesterly winds at 15-35 km/h, with wave heights between 0.5 and 1.5 meters. The Arabian Gulf will have northwesterly to northeasterly winds at 10-30 km/h, with waves of 0.5 to 1 meter. These conditions are within safe limits for most marine activities, but small craft operators are advised to remain cautious.
Implications and Impact
The forecasted weather could affect daily life in the southwestern regions, potentially disrupting travel and outdoor activities. Local authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely and issue advisories as needed. The relatively calm seas in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are positive news for shipping and fishing industries, which are vital to Saudi Arabia’s economy. Additionally, the rain is beneficial for agriculture in the region, as it supports crop growth and replenishes water sources. The NCM’s timely forecasts are essential for ensuring the safety of pilgrims traveling to Makkah and other holy sites, especially during peak seasons.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The National Center for Meteorology’s work aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing public safety, supporting economic diversification, and improving quality of life through accurate and timely weather information. As the Kingdom continues to develop its tourism and maritime sectors, reliable meteorological services are crucial for sustainable growth and investment. The center’s advanced monitoring capabilities reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to serve its citizens and visitors, reinforcing its role as a global leader in smart governance and disaster preparedness.
20 Questions
Q1. What regions are expected to experience strong winds and rain?
A1. According to the National Center for Meteorology, parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, extending to the highlands of Makkah, may experience strong winds, moderate to heavy rain, and hail.
Q2. What is the expected wind speed over the Red Sea?
A2. Winds over the Red Sea will be westerly to northwesterly, reaching speeds of 15-35 km/h, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to one and a half meters.
Q3. How high might waves reach in the Arabian Gulf?
A3. Waves in the Arabian Gulf may reach from half a meter to a meter, with winds northwesterly to northeasterly at speeds of 10-30 km/h, and the sea will be calm.
Q4. Which authority issued this weather forecast?
A4. The forecast was issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the official Saudi authority responsible for weather monitoring and forecasting.
Q5. What type of precipitation is expected in the affected regions?
A5. Moderate to heavy rain and hail may fall over parts of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha, extending to the highlands of Makkah, according to the NCM.
Q6. Will the weather affect maritime activities in the Red Sea?
A6. The sea will be relatively calm with wave heights of 0.5 to 1.5 meters, which is generally safe for most marine activities, though small craft should exercise caution.
Q7. What are the wind conditions in the Arabian Gulf?
A7. Winds will be northwesterly to northeasterly at 10-30 km/h, with waves of half a meter to a meter, and the sea will be calm.
Q8. How does this forecast benefit agriculture in Saudi Arabia?
A8. The rain supports crop growth and replenishes water sources in the southwestern regions, contributing to agricultural productivity and food security.
Q9. Are there any risks associated with the forecasted weather?
A9. Heavy rain could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may disrupt outdoor activities, so residents should stay informed and take precautions.
Q10. How does the NCM ensure public safety through its forecasts?
A10. The NCM provides timely and accurate weather updates to help residents, pilgrims, and businesses prepare for adverse conditions, thereby enhancing public safety.
Q11. What is the significance of the highlands of Makkah in this forecast?
A11. The highlands of Makkah host millions of pilgrims annually, so weather advisories there are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors.
Q12. How might this weather affect travel in the region?
A12. Travelers should expect potential delays or hazards due to rain and strong winds, and are advised to check road conditions and plan accordingly.
Q13. What role does the NCM play in Saudi Vision 2030?
A13. The NCM supports Vision 2030 by enhancing public safety, enabling economic diversification, and improving quality of life through advanced meteorological services.
Q14. Are the sea conditions suitable for fishing?
A14. Yes, the relatively calm seas in both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are suitable for fishing, but fishermen should remain alert to changing conditions.
Q15. How often does the NCM issue weather forecasts?
A15. The NCM issues daily weather forecasts and updates as needed to keep the public informed about changing conditions across the Kingdom.
Q16. What should residents in affected areas do to prepare?
A16. Residents should secure loose objects, avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, and follow official advisories from local authorities and the NCM.
Q17. Does this forecast impact shipping in the Red Sea?
A17. Shipping can continue as usual given the relatively calm conditions, but operators should monitor updates and take standard precautions.
Q18. What technology does the NCM use for weather monitoring?
A18. The NCM utilizes advanced meteorological technology, including radar and satellite systems, to provide accurate and timely forecasts.
Q19. How does this weather align with seasonal patterns in Saudi Arabia?
A19. This weather is consistent with transitional seasons when the southwestern regions often experience rain and strong winds due to atmospheric instability.
Q20. Where can the public find updates on this weather forecast?
A20. Updates are available through official NCM channels, including their website and social media accounts, as well as via the Saudi Press Agency.
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