Saudi Arabia Weather Forecast for Saturday: Rain and Hail Expected

Riyadh, September 12, 2026 — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued its weather forecast for Saturday, indicating dust-stirring winds and moderate to heavy rain with hail in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah regions. Fog is also expected to form in some of these areas, as well as in parts of the Eastern Region. The center noted that gusty winds and rain may affect parts of Najran Region. Maritime conditions are forecast to be relatively calm, with northerly to northwesterly winds over the Red Sea at speeds of 15–38 km/h and wave heights of half a meter to one and a half meters. In the Arabian Gulf, westerly to northwesterly winds will blow at 10–28 km/h, with waves reaching half a meter to one meter.

Context and Background

The National Center for Meteorology is the official Saudi authority responsible for monitoring weather patterns, issuing forecasts, and providing early warnings to protect lives and property across the Kingdom. Its daily bulletins are essential for citizens, residents, and visitors, particularly in regions prone to rapid weather changes. The forecast for Saturday highlights the continued influence of seasonal atmospheric patterns over the southwestern highlands and coastal areas, where convective activity often leads to thunderstorms and hail during this time of year. The NCM’s advanced monitoring network, including radar and satellite systems, enables precise, timely updates that support public safety and informed decision-making.

Key Details

According to the NCM, the affected regions include Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah, where moderate to heavy rain and hail are expected. Dust-stirring winds may reduce visibility in open areas. Fog formation is likely in parts of these regions and the Eastern Region, which could impact morning travel. In Najran Region, gusty winds and rain are forecast. Over the Red Sea, northerly to northwesterly winds at 15–38 km/h will produce wave heights of 0.5 to 1.5 meters, with relatively calm sea conditions. The Arabian Gulf will experience westerly to northwesterly winds at 10–28 km/h, with waves of 0.5 to 1 meter, also relatively calm. These conditions are typical for this time of year and are closely monitored by the NCM.

Implications and Impact

The forecasted weather may affect daily activities, particularly in the southwestern regions where heavy rain and hail could lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas. Travelers should exercise caution on roads due to reduced visibility from dust and fog. Maritime conditions are favorable for sea navigation, with calm seas expected in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. The NCM advises the public to follow official updates and adhere to safety guidelines. The center’s proactive communication underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging technology and expertise to safeguard communities and support economic activities, including tourism and pilgrimage, which are vital to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Accurate weather forecasting is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to enhance quality of life and ensure the safety of residents and visitors, aligning with Vision 2030’s objectives to build a resilient, sustainable society. The National Center for Meteorology’s work supports key sectors such as tourism, aviation, and maritime trade, contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification and global connectivity. By providing reliable, science-based information, the NCM helps protect lives and property, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in innovation and public service.

20 Questions

Q1. What agency issued the weather forecast for Saturday?

A1. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued the forecast, providing detailed information on expected weather conditions across various regions of Saudi Arabia.

Q2. Which regions are expected to experience rain and hail?

A2. Parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah regions are forecast to receive moderate to heavy rain and hail, according to the NCM.

Q3. What are the expected wind conditions in the affected regions?

A3. Dust-stirring winds are expected in the regions of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah, which may reduce visibility in open areas.

Q4. Will fog form in any areas on Saturday?

A4. Yes, fog may form in parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Region, potentially affecting morning travel.

Q5. What is the forecast for Najran Region?

A5. Gusty winds and rain may occur in parts of Najran Region, as indicated by the National Center for Meteorology.

Q6. What are the wind speeds expected over the Red Sea?

A6. Winds over the Red Sea will be northerly to northwesterly at speeds of 15–38 km/h, creating relatively calm sea conditions.

Q7. What wave heights are expected in the Red Sea?

A7. Waves in the Red Sea may range from half a meter to one and a half meters, according to the NCM forecast.

Q8. What are the wind conditions in the Arabian Gulf?

A8. Westerly to northwesterly winds at speeds of 10–28 km/h are expected in the Arabian Gulf, with relatively calm seas.

Q9. What wave heights are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?

A9. Waves in the Arabian Gulf may reach half a meter to one meter, as per the National Center for Meteorology.

Q10. How does the NCM ensure accurate forecasts?

A10. The NCM uses advanced radar, satellite, and monitoring networks to provide precise and timely weather forecasts for all regions of the Kingdom.

Q11. What should residents do during dust-stirring winds?

A11. Residents should limit outdoor activities, wear masks if necessary, and follow official updates to minimize health risks from dust.

Q12. How might the weather affect travel in the affected regions?

A12. Heavy rain, hail, and fog could reduce visibility and cause slippery roads, so travelers should exercise caution and check updates.

Q13. Are the sea conditions suitable for maritime activities?

A13. Yes, both the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf are expected to be relatively calm, making conditions favorable for maritime activities.

Q14. What time was the forecast released?

A14. The forecast was released at 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT) on September 12, 2026, by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q15. How does this forecast support Vision 2030?

A15. Accurate weather forecasts enhance public safety, support tourism and economic activities, and contribute to a resilient society, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Q16. Which areas might experience reduced visibility?

A16. Areas affected by dust-stirring winds and fog, including parts of Jazan, Aseer, Al-Baha, Makkah, Madinah, and the Eastern Region, may see reduced visibility.

Q17. What is the expected impact on agriculture?

A17. Rain can benefit agriculture in the southwestern regions, but heavy hail may damage crops; farmers should monitor NCM updates.

Q18. How can the public access NCM updates?

A18. The public can access updates through official NCM channels, including their website and social media, as well as via the Saudi Press Agency.

Q19. Is this weather pattern unusual for September?

A19. No, such weather is typical for this time of year in the southwestern highlands, where convective activity often leads to thunderstorms and hail.

Q20. What is the overall outlook for Saturday’s weather?

A20. The overall outlook includes rain and hail in several regions, dust-stirring winds, fog in some areas, and relatively calm seas, with the NCM urging caution.

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