The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense has issued a warning about expected thunderstorms in Makkah and several other regions of Saudi Arabia, starting from Friday and continuing through Tuesday. The directorate has urged the public to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the upcoming period of severe weather.
In an official statement, the Civil Defense emphasized the importance of staying in safe areas and avoiding locations prone to flooding, such as valleys, water swamps, and torrents. The directorate also issued a strong warning against swimming in these areas due to the significant risk they pose to human life.
The public has been advised to closely follow weather updates and safety instructions through various media channels and social media platforms. The directorate highlighted that several governorates and areas within the Makkah region, including Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Kamil, and Al-Ardiyat, are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, leading to potential torrential floods, hail, and dust storms. Light to moderate rain is also forecasted for the Holy Capital, Al-Jumum, Qunfudhah, Allaith, Al-Khurmah, Turbah, Raniyah, and Al-Mawiyah.
In addition to the Makkah region, other areas across Saudi Arabia are also expected to be affected by the adverse weather conditions. The Civil Defense has specifically warned that Al-Aflaj, Hotah Bani Tamim, Al-Kharj, Wadi Al-Dawasir, and Al-Sulayyil in the Riyadh region will likely experience light to moderate rainfall accompanied by sandstorms.
Further south, the regions of Asir, Al-Baha, and Jazan are expected to face moderate to heavy rain. Meanwhile, the regions of Madinah, Najran, and the Eastern Province are forecasted to experience light to moderate rain during this period.
The Civil Defense’s warning comes as part of a broader effort to ensure public safety during these severe weather events. Residents in the affected areas are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines, and avoid unnecessary travel during the period of the storms.
The press release, distributed by the Saudi Press Agency, underscores the seriousness of the weather forecast and the need for all citizens and residents to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families.