The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by hail and gusty winds over parts of the Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha regions for Monday, August 24, 2026. The official report, released via the Saudi Press Agency, also indicates fog formation in these areas and along the coastal parts of the Eastern Region. Maximum temperatures will remain high in the Eastern Region, with a chance of thunderclouds forming and gusty winds blowing in its southern parts, as well as in parts of Najran and the highlands of Makkah and Madinah regions.
Context and Background
The NCM serves as the Kingdom’s primary authority for meteorological monitoring and early warning systems. Its daily forecasts are essential for public safety, disaster preparedness, and the smooth operation of aviation, maritime, and land-based activities. This forecast aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in advanced weather infrastructure, supporting the Vision 2030 goal of enhancing quality of life for citizens, residents, and visitors.
Key Details
According to the NCM, the Red Sea will experience northwesterly to westerly winds at speeds of 10–50 km/h in the southern part, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to over two meters, making the sea calm to choppy. In the Arabian Gulf, winds are expected at 12–32 km/h in the northern part, and 10–25 km/h in the central and southern parts, with waves between half a meter and one meter, maintaining a calm sea. These conditions necessitate caution for maritime activities but are generally within safe navigation limits.
Implications and Impact
The forecast has significant implications for daily life and industries across the affected regions. Thunderstorms with hail and gusty winds could disrupt outdoor events and transportation in Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha. Fog formation may reduce visibility in coastal and Eastern areas, prompting authorities to issue travel advisories. The high temperatures in the Eastern Region, combined with potential thunderclouds, may affect energy demand and require residents to take heat precautions. Meanwhile, the sea state in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf will be actively monitored to ensure maritime safety.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This weather forecast is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modern meteorological services that protect lives and support economic resilience. By providing accurate, timely, and transparent weather data, the Kingdom is enabling safe tourism, logistics, and urban development across all regions. This proactive approach to climate monitoring is a cornerstone of Vision 2030, which seeks to build a sustainable and diversified economy while enhancing the well-being of every resident. The NCM’s daily bulletins, delivered through official channels, reflect a modern Saudi Arabia that prioritizes technology, safety, and forward-looking governance.
20 Questions
Q1. What are the key weather warnings for Monday in Saudi Arabia?
A1. The NCM warns of thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds in Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha. Fog may form over these areas and coastal parts of the Eastern Region, while high temperatures persist in the Eastern Region. The official advisory advises caution for travelers and residents.
Q2. Which regions will experience thunderstorms?
A2. Thunderstorms are expected over parts of Jazan, Aseer, and Al-Baha, with additional thundercloud development possible in southern parts of the Eastern Region, parts of Najran, and the highlands of Makkah and Madinah. These areas should prepare for sudden weather changes.
Q3. How are temperatures expected in the Eastern Region?
A3. The Eastern Region will experience high maximum temperatures on Monday, with the possibility of thunderclouds and gusty winds in its southern parts. Residents and visitors should remain hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours to prevent heat-related issues.
Q4. What are the wind speeds predicted for the Red Sea?
A4. In the southern Red Sea, winds will be northwesterly to westerly at speeds of 10–50 km/h. This may create waves ranging from half a meter to over two meters, making the sea calm to choppy, so mariners should assess sea conditions before sailing.
Q5. What wave heights are forecast for the Arabian Gulf?
A5. The Arabian Gulf is expected to have waves of half a meter to one meter, with calm seas. Winds range from 12–32 km/h in the north and 10–25 km/h in the central and southern parts, ensuring safe conditions for most marine activity.
Q6. What is the role of the National Center for Meteorology?
A6. The NCM is the official authority for meteorological monitoring and forecasting in Saudi Arabia. It provides daily bulletins, severe weather warnings, and climate data to safeguard public safety and support planning across sectors like aviation, shipping, agriculture, and urban development.
Q7. How does the NCM update its forecasts?
A7. The NCM issues daily forecasts and updates warnings through its official website, social media channels, and SMS alerts. It collaborates with national media and emergency authorities to ensure real-time information reaches the public for safe decision-making.
Q8. What precautions should residents take during thunderstorms?
A8. Residents should avoid open fields and exposed machinery, stay away from tall structures, and follow local advisories. It is also advisable to postpone travel during severe conditions and to secure outdoor items that may be affected by strong winds.
Q9. How may fog affect travel?
A9. Fog can reduce visibility, especially in coastal and mountainous areas, affecting road and possibly air traffic. Motorists should use low-beam headlights and keep a safe distance, while travelers should check with airlines for potential flight adjustments.
Q10. How do gusty winds affect local industries?
A10. Gusty winds can impact construction, logistics, and agriculture by blowing debris or disrupting cargo handling. Farmers may need to secure greenhouses and irrigation systems, while transport operators should adjust routes to avoid areas with high wind alerts.
Q11. How does Saudi Arabia use weather data for Vision 2030?
A11. Accurate weather data enhances Vision 2030 by improving resilience of smart cities, optimizing energy use, and supporting tourism across coastal regions. The NCM’s real-time insights help planners design infrastructure that withstands climate extremes and maximizes public safety.
Q12. Are there warnings for highlands of Makkah and Madinah?
A12. Yes, there is a chance of thunderclouds and gusty winds in the highlands of Makkah and Madinah. Pilgrims and visitors should monitor updates and avoid outdoor activities during severe weather to ensure a safe spiritual experience.
Q13. What is the sea condition in the Red Sea?
A13. The Red Sea, particularly the southern part, will have northwest to west winds of 10–50 km/h and waves up to 2 meters, resulting in calm to choppy seas. Vessels should prepare for varying wave heights and adjust routes accordingly.
Q14. How safe is the Arabian Gulf for shipping?
A14. The Arabian Gulf conditions are generally calm with waves of 0.5 to 1 meter, making shipping safe. Northerly winds are moderate, and visibility is expected to be good, so marine cargo and passenger transport can proceed with standard cautions.
Q15. How does the NCM communicate alerts?
A15. The NCM uses its website, mobile apps, and social media platforms for alerts. It also coordinates with Saudi Press Agency and the news services, ensuring broad reach. Users can subscribe to SMS notifications for the latest updates.
Q16. What is the role of the Saudi Press Agency in weather dissemination?
A16. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) broadcasts official statements from the NCM, ensuring accurate and timely dissemination to the public and media. This centralized communication reinforces the reliability of weather information and trust in official channels.
Q17. How do forecasts affect tourism?
A17. Weather forecasts allow tour operators to schedule trips in safe conditions, particularly for desert and coastal excursions. By providing advance warnings, the NCM helps tourism sites plan for weather-related risks, thereby enhancing visitor safety and satisfaction.
Q18. What heat-safety measures are recommended?
A18. During high temperatures, officials advise drinking water, wearing lightweight clothing, and avoiding direct sun during midday. Vulnerable groups and workers should monitor hydration, and employers may adjust schedules to reduce heat exposure during peak temperatures.
Q19. How often are forecasts updated?
A19. The NCM issues daily updates and provides hourly alerts when conditions become extreme. This frequent schedule ensures users have the latest information for planning, and for adjusting daily routines when weather changes abruptly.
Q20. Are there official guidelines for residents during adverse weather?
A20. The NCM publishes a set of guidelines via its official website and social media. These include staying indoors during storms, avoiding coastal areas, and checking safety guidelines. Residents are encouraged to follow those, along with guidance from Civil Defense for any emergency.
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