Saudi weather: Heavy downpours and hail forecast until Friday

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has issued a weather alert for several regions, forecasting heavy rainfall, hail, and potential flash flooding through Friday. The most severe conditions are expected across the Jazan, Asir, and Al Baha regions.

Meteorologists anticipate that intense storms could produce rainfall rates between 10 and 50 millimeters per hour, accompanied by downdraft winds exceeding 60 kilometers per hour. The weather agency warned that visibility may drop to near-zero levels, and coastal areas could experience rough seas or the formation of waterspouts.

In Jazan, the forecast includes areas such as Al-Rayth, Harub, Al Dayer, and Fayfa. The Asir region, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, and Tanomah, is expected to see increased storm activity on Sunday and Friday. Al Baha city and surrounding areas like Baljurashi and Al-Mandaq are also under the alert, with the most active weather predicted for Monday and Tuesday.

Parts of the Mecca region, including Taif, Maysan, and Al Kamil, are also expected to experience moderate to heavy downpours. Lighter rainfall is forecast for regions further north and south, including Madinah, Al Ula, Khaybar, and Najran.

The National Center for Meteorology defines moderate rain as 5 to 9 millimeters per hour, while light rain is classified as 1 to 4 millimeters per hour. Authorities have urged residents to monitor official weather bulletins and adhere to safety instructions, particularly in areas prone to flash flooding.

Article and image source: gulfnews.com