Intense thunderstorms signal persistent flooding threats in Saudi Arabia
Thunderstorms and Rainfall Sweep Across Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is bracing for a mix of thunderstorms, rainfall, and high temperatures, as forecasted by the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM). The weather conditions are particularly active in the southwestern and western highlands, with Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Mecca, Medina, Tabuk, Al Jouf, Northern Borders, and Najran expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
In the southwestern and western provinces, the forecast highlights significant thunderstorm activity, with hail and strong winds expected over parts of Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, and Mecca regions. The increased tropical humidity and favorable atmospheric conditions are responsible for the cumulonimbus cloud formation.
Northern regions such as Tabuk, Al Jouf, and Northern Borders are also expected to see local thunderstorms and possible dust or sandstorms due to downdrafts associated with thunderstorm activity. Visibility may be significantly reduced during these events.
Najran, while part of the south, is also expected to see rain and thunderstorm chances, though the details are less specifically noted.
Despite the active weather conditions in many parts of the country, Saudi Arabia overall is experiencing persistent high temperatures, generally in the range of 38 to over 42°C, with some localized areas potentially exceeding 45°C.
In contrast, the Arabian Gulf is predicted to remain generally calm, with wave heights ranging from half a meter to one meter. Over the Arabian Gulf, surface winds are predicted to blow from southeast to south at speeds between 10 and 26 km/h. No mention of hail or strong winds, flash flooding, or lighter to moderate rainfall is noted in the Arabian Gulf regions.
The National Center of Meteorology predicts this rainy spell will last from early to midweek in August 2025, impacting most of these regions with variable intensity. The weather pattern combines hot, dry conditions in much of the Kingdom with active thunderstorms and rainfall focused mainly in the southwestern and western provinces and some northern areas. These conditions are typical of late summer convective activity influenced by tropical humidity and thermal depressions.
- As the rainy spell continues in Saudi Arabia, it may impact individuals' career choices, as businesses might face challenges and changes due to the weather conditions.
- The increased focus on environmental-science in recent years could lead to innovative solutions for managing water resources during this period of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
- The news of the ongoing thunderstorms and rainfall in Saudi Arabia is spreading rapidly, influencing people's opinion about the country's weather patterns and climate change.
- The predicted high temperatures and the possibility of extreme heatwaves during this weather event raise concerns for public health and safety, as people are advised to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
