The General Directorate of Civil Defence has asked residents to stay in safe areas, keep away from valleys and places prone to flooding, and avoid swimming in floodwaters or other hazardous spots. People have also been asked to follow safety instructions and weather warnings shared by the authorities through official media and social media channels.
What Civil Defence Is Asking Residents To Do
Motorists and residents in affected areas have been urged to stay alert as conditions develop and to comply with official guidance throughout the forecast period.
Mecca Region Faces The Heaviest Rain
The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) says moderate to heavy rain is expected across parts of the Mecca region, with conditions that could trigger flash floods, hail and dust storms. The areas likely to be affected include the holy city of Mecca, Al Kamil, Al Jumum, Bahrah, Taif, Maysan, Adham and Al Ardiyat. Light to moderate rain is forecast for Al Lith and Al Qunfudhah.
Jazan, Asir, Al Baha And Madinah Also On Watch
Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected across Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and Madinah, again with the possibility of flash floods, hail and winds that raise dust. Further north, Hail, Tabuk, Al Jouf and the Northern Borders are forecast to see light to moderate rain.
The alert covers several days rather than a single storm, so conditions can change from one day to the next. Rain in valleys and low-lying areas can quickly become dangerous, which is why the guidance keeps returning to the same point: stay away from flood channels and never try to cross fast-moving water.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia: Heavy Rainfall To Continue With Chances Of Triggering Flash Floods
Travelling To Mecca Or Madinah?
If you are travelling to Mecca or Madinah, including for Umrah, it is worth checking NCM and Civil Defence updates each morning before heading out. Allow extra time for road journeys as well, since hail and dust can cut visibility on highways within minutes.
Saudi authorities have issued a series of similar warnings in recent weeks, so residents in the western and southern regions in particular may already be familiar with the routine. The advice, however, has not changed, and it is worth following even when the skies look calm.
For now, the message from officials is simple: stay in safe places, keep an eye on official channels, and avoid valleys and flood-prone spots until the weather settles.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/RicAguiar from Getty Images Signature
FAQs
Which areas face the heaviest rain?
Parts of the Mecca region, including Mecca, Taif, Maysan, Adham and Al Ardiyat, along with Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and Madinah.