Saudi weather forecast: thunderstorms, hail and active winds expected
The National Center for Meteorology issued a Saudi weather forecast for Tuesday indicating continued thunderstorms with hail showers and gusty winds across parts of Jazan, Asir and Al Baha. The forecast covers coastal and inland areas and notes elevated maximum temperatures over parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh Region, while reduced visibility due to dust is possible in several provinces.
The advisory is in effect for today and highlights changing conditions at sea as well as on land. According to the report, localized heavy rain and strong gusts could produce temporary disruptions to transport and outdoor activities in affected areas.
Thunderstorms and regional impacts
Thunderstorms are expected to persist in the southwest, particularly in Jazan, Asir and Al Baha, where convective cells may produce frequent lightning, brief intense downpours and hail. The centre warned that hail and sudden strong gusts could occur within these storms, increasing the risk of flash flooding in low-lying or poorly drained locations.
Meanwhile, daytime maximum temperatures will remain high across parts of the Eastern Province and Riyadh Region, raising heat-stress concerns during peak afternoon hours. In contrast, winds picking up across central and southern sectors will stir up dust and reduce air quality, affecting visibility on roadways and air travel operations.
Reduced visibility and dust storms
Active winds are forecast to generate dust and blowing sand over portions of the Eastern Province, Riyadh, Najran, Madinah and Mecca regions. The centre’s report cautioned that these conditions may bring near-zero horizontal visibility over the southern coastal sections of the Mecca area, disrupting coastal traffic and local shipping.
Drivers and outdoor workers should anticipate sudden drops in visibility and take standard precautions. Additionally, those with respiratory sensitivities are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure while dust concentrations are elevated.
Marine outlook for the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf
The maritime component of the Saudi weather forecast details differing sea conditions between the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. Over the Red Sea, surface winds are expected from the northwest to west at 15–35 km/h, increasing to around 45 km/h in the central sector and exceeding 50 km/h in the southern sector where thunderstorms develop.
Wave heights in the Red Sea are forecast from 0.5 to 1.5 metres under general conditions, rising above two metres in the central sector when convective storms are present in the south. The centre described the northern and southern Red Sea as light to moderate seas overall, with rough to very rough conditions possible in the central and southern parts during heavy rain cells.
On the Arabian Gulf, winds will vary by sector: northwesterly to westerly flows of 15–35 km/h in the north and southeasterly to northeasterly winds of 10–28 km/h in central and southern waters. Wave heights there are expected between 0.5 and 1.0 metre with generally calm to light sea states for most coastal operations.
Implications for transportation and public services
Authorities and transport operators are likely to monitor rapid changes in road and sea conditions through the day. Heavy rain and hail can reduce road traction and visibility, while dust and sand may force temporary speed limits or traffic control measures on affected highways.
Airline and port operators may need to adjust schedules depending on the intensity and location of thunderstorms and reduced visibility, particularly along the southern coast of the Red Sea near Mecca. Emergency services and municipal teams are advised to remain on alert for localized flooding and storm-related incidents.
Preparedness and recommended precautions
Residents in impacted provinces should follow updates from the National Center for Meteorology and local authorities. Standard precautions include securing loose outdoor items, avoiding crossing flooded roads, and seeking shelter away from windows during severe thunderstorms and hail events.
Mariners should heed the marine outlook, avoid transiting exposed areas during strong gusts and convective activity, and verify port and harbor advisories before departure. Employers of outdoor workers should consider rescheduling strenuous tasks during peak heat hours in hot regions and during dust or thunderstorm events elsewhere.
Outlook and what to watch next
The National Center for Meteorology will continue to update the Saudi weather forecast as convective activity evolves through the day and into the coming 24–48 hours. Observers should watch for changes in storm tracks, the extent of dust plumes, and shifting wind strengths that could alter local impacts.
Follow-up bulletins are expected if thunderstorms intensify or expand, or if marine conditions deteriorate further. Residents and mariners should check official channels for real-time warnings and forecasts to plan travel and outdoor activities accordingly.