Saudi Arabia Braces for Successive Days of Severe Storms
As weather forecasters predict a multi-day period of severe and potentially dangerous weather, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is on high alert. Residents and citizens are being urged to take immediate precautions against heavy rains, hail, and significant flood risks.
Executive Warning Issued by Government
The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a comprehensive weather warning, stating that several storm systems will impact significant portions of the nation beginning [date/time based on the original article]. Strong, gusty winds; severe hailstorms that can cause property damage; and torrential rainfall that causes flash flooding are the main dangers.
Comprehensive Prediction and Affected Areas
It is anticipated that the erratic weather pattern will persist and spread widely. The areas with the worst effects have been identified as follows:
- Forecasts indicate that heavy rainfall in the Central Region, which includes the capital, Riyadh, could overwhelm drainage systems and cause urban flooding.
- Western Region: The cities of Makkah and Madinah may experience disruptions in travel and local infrastructure.
- We advise the Eastern Province to prepare for storm activity in strategic locations along the Gulf coast.
- Other Areas: There may be varied levels of thunderstorm activity in areas like Al-Qassim, Hail, and Najran.
- It is anticipated that the intensity will vary over a few days, with short lulls in between bursts of activity.
Possible Risks at Main Areas of Saudi Arabia
- Thunderstorms are expected nationwide from Sept 7–11.
- Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, and Taif will face heavy storms.
- Riyadh, Medina, Najran, and Eastern Province are forecast for moderate rain.
- Flash flood risk in valleys and low-lying areas
- Winds up to 60 km/h may reduce visibility.
- Civil Defense urges caution and safety compliance.
Official Precautionary and Advisory Actions
Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defense has issued strict guidelines for public safety and mobilized resources:
- Stay Updated: Stay informed by regularly monitoring official updates from the Civil Defense and the NCM via their news broadcasts and official social media accounts.
- Avoid Travel: Unless it is absolutely necessary, avoid going out. If you must travel, ensure that the roads are in satisfactory condition and stay away from flooded areas.
- Never Cross Flooded Roads: Drivers should never try to cross flooded valleys or flowing water. The current and depth can be deadly and misleading.
- Secure Property: Make sure drainage routes around houses are clear, secure loose outdoor items, and move cars to covered parking if at all possible.
- Get an emergency kit ready: In the event of a power outage, keep supplies like flashlights, non-perishable food, drinking water, and charged power banks on hand.
Readiness of the Government
The Ministry of Interior and Civil Defense, among other pertinent government agencies, have declared that they are ready to handle any emergency. To guarantee a prompt response to any incidents, emergency response teams, rescue units, and required equipment are on standby in high-risk areas.
We urge the public to prioritize their safety by adhering to all official instructions and treating this forecast with utmost seriousness.
Source: This article is based on a report from Gulf News. For continuous updates, please refer to the official Saudi National Center for Meteorology (@NCMKSA).
