Saudi Arabia has issued red and orange weather alerts for several regions, including Mecca and Medina, amid forecasts of heavy rain and flash floods.
The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued a red alert on Thursday (August 27) for parts of the Mecca region, including Taif, Al-Kamil and Adham, warning of very heavy rainfall.
An orange alert was issued for Al-Eis, Al-Mahd and Badr in the Medina region due to moderate rainfall. Yellow alerts were also issued for Rabigh, Jeddah and Al-Khurmah over light rain and dust storms.
The weather authorities warned of moderate to heavy thunderstorms and hail in parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Mecca and Medina, which could trigger flash floods.
Rain-bearing clouds accompanied by strong winds are also expected in the Northern Borders, Riyadh and parts of the Eastern Province. Dense fog may affect coastal areas late at night.
The Civil Defence authorities advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from flood-prone areas.