Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued updated weather alerts using its color-coded warning system, alongside new marine forecasts for the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, as unstable conditions continue across several regions of Saudi Arabia.
The NCM’s alert system classifies weather risks into three levels: Yellow for reduced visibility, thunderstorms, and active winds; Orange for moderate rainfall, hail, strong winds, near-zero visibility, and potential flash floods; and Red for the most severe conditions.
As of Wednesday, affected areas fall under the yellow and orange categories.
Light rainfall is expected in parts of the Makkah region, including:
Al-Shua’iba and Al-Laith from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Al-Qunfudah from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Makkah city and Al-Jumum between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Moderate rainfall and thunderstorms were forecast early Wednesday in several Asir governorates, including Abha, Uhd Rufaida, Al-Nimas, Balqarn, Tanuma, Khamis Mushait, and Rijal Almaa, with conditions expected between 1 a.m. and 8 a.m. No red-level alerts are currently active.
The NCM warned that weather patterns remain favorable for moderate to heavy thunderstorms capable of producing flash floods, particularly across Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan. Falling temperatures and dust-raising winds may also affect parts of these regions.
Light to moderate thunderstorms could additionally impact Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, as well as elevated terrain in Jazan. Rain may also extend into Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders.
Northwesterly winds over the northern and central coasts;
Southwesterly winds in the south;
Speeds between 10–35 km/h, exceeding 50 km/h with thundercloud activity;
Waves may surpass 2 meters, with conditions ranging from light to moderate, becoming rough during storms.
Northwesterly winds at 10–35 km/h;
Wave heights between 0.5 and 1.5 meters;
Sea conditions expected to be light to moderate overall.
