Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Saudi Arabia is expected to begin 2026 with above-average rainfall in several regions, particularly in January, alongside generally warmer-than-normal temperatures across the Kingdom during the first quarter, according to new seasonal climate forecasts issued by the National Center for Meteorology (NCM).

The center said January rainfall is likely to exceed long-term averages in parts of northern and eastern Saudi Arabia, with enhanced rainfall activity forecast across western and central regions.

Areas expected to see higher precipitation include Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, parts of Hail, and sections of the Eastern Province, where some locations may experience heavy rainfall at times.

In February, rainfall is forecast to return closer to seasonal norms.

The NCM expects near-average precipitation across Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, and northern parts of the Eastern Province, with some areas potentially recording slightly below-average rainfall.

Rainfall levels in March are also projected to remain around normal, particularly across southwestern and western regions. These include Jazan — excluding coastal areas — Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, southern Madinah, northern Najran, and parts of southern Eastern Province.

Jazan may see moderate rainfall, with occasional heavier showers during the month.

Alongside precipitation trends, the NCM warned of a noticeable rise in average temperatures across all regions of the Kingdom during the first quarter of 2026.

Temperature increases of up to 1.5 degrees Celsius above long-term averages are expected, with the most significant warming forecast for central regions, southern and eastern parts of the Eastern Province, eastern Najran, Sharurah, and southern Riyadh.

The center urged residents to closely follow official weather updates, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall or elevated temperatures, and to take necessary precautions as conditions evolve.