Saudi Arabia has issued red weather alerts for parts of four regions, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and possible flash floods, according to the country’s National Center for Meteorology (NCM).
The affected regions are Jizan, Asir, Al-Baha and Makkah, where moderate to heavy thunderstorms are forecast in some areas, Gulf News reported on Sunday, citing Saudi weather authorities.
The NCM warned that the storms could bring hail and strong winds, potentially triggering dust and sandstorms in some locations.
Heavy rainfall could also increase the risk of flash flooding. Fog is forecast in parts of the four regions and along coastal areas of the Eastern Province, potentially reducing visibility on roads and elsewhere.
Despite the risk of severe weather in some areas, temperatures are expected to remain high in several Saudi cities. Dammam could record a maximum of 42°C, while Makkah may reach 39°C and Riyadh and Buraidah 38°C.
Madinah is forecast to see a high of 37°C, while Jeddah and Jizan could reach 36°C. Temperatures may peak at 33°C in Hail, 32°C in Arar, Sakaka and Najran, and 28°C in Tabuk.
Cooler conditions are expected in mountainous areas of the country’s southwest. Abha could record a minimum temperature of 15°C, while Al-Baha may see a low of 24°C.
Humidity levels are forecast to vary significantly across the country, potentially reaching 90% in Abha, Al-Baha and Jizan, 85% in Jeddah and Dammam, and 80% in Makkah.
Authorities have warned of potential flash flooding in areas experiencing heavy rain, while fog could create hazardous visibility conditions in affected locations.
Source : Gulf News