Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Large parts of Saudi Arabia are expected to experience thundery rainfall from Sunday through Thursday, December 14–18, as weather systems bring varying levels of precipitation across the Kingdom, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM).

Rainfall intensity is forecast to range from light to heavy, with some regions facing stronger winds, hail, and the risk of runoff and localized flooding.

Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates and take precautions during periods of severe weather.

What to expect

The NCM said rainfall will differ in timing and intensity between regions and governorates, with thunderstorms expected in several central, northern, western, and southwestern areas.

• Light rainfall may bring winds reaching 50 km/h, raising dust and reducing visibility.

• Moderate rainfall could be accompanied by stronger winds, hail, valley runoff, and elevated coastal waves.

• Heavy rainfall may trigger intense runoff, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and localized flooding in some areas.

Regions likely to see heavier rainfall

Several regions are forecast to receive moderate to heavy rain during the week:

In the Riyadh region, rainfall is expected between December 14 and 17 across Riyadh city and surrounding governorates, with lighter rain in Al-Aflaj, Wadi Al-Dawasir, and Al-Sulayyil.

The Eastern Province may see rainfall from December 14 to 18 affecting major cities including Dammam, Al-Khobar, Qatif, Jubail, Ras Tanura, Buqayq, and Al-Ahsa.

Rain is also forecast across Hail, Qassim, and the Madinah region, including Madinah city, Yanbu, Al-Ula, Khaybar, and Badr.

In the north, Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders are expected to see peak rainfall midweek, particularly in Sakaka, Dumat Al-Jandal, Arar, Rafha, Turaif, and Al-Uwayqilah.

Southwestern and western regions

The Asir and Jazan regions are forecast to experience continued rainfall through December 18, with heavier showers possible in highland areas such as Abha, Khamis Mushait, Al-Namas, Tanumah, Fayfa, and Al-Dayer.

The Makkah highlands, including Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al-Ardiyat, along with the Al-Baha region, are also expected to see moderate rainfall, with some areas experiencing heavier showers midweek.

Areas expecting lighter rainfall

Light to moderate rain is forecast for Tabuk’s coastal and southern areas, parts of Najran, and coastal Makkah governorates including Jeddah, Bahrah, Khulais, Rabigh, Al-Jumum, and Al-Kamil.

Travel and safety advisory

The NCM warned that thunderstorms, hail, and runoff may affect several regions, while coastal areas could experience high waves.

Motorists are urged to drive with caution, avoid flood-prone valleys, and follow official advisories as weather conditions evolve