Saudi weather forecast: thunderstorms, hail and dust warnings
The National Center for Meteorology issued a Saudi weather forecast for Saturday indicating a heightened chance of thunderstorm activity across southwestern and central Saudi Arabia. The forecast warns of heavy rain, hail showers and active winds affecting parts of Najran, Jazan, Asir and Al Baha, extending into highland areas of the Mecca region. The advisory also highlights dusty conditions and reduced visibility on key inland routes.
What is expected and when
According to the National Center for Meteorology, the most intense activity is expected during daytime and into the evening, with the current advisory period continuing until 9:00 p.m. local time. Meanwhile, the Eastern Region will remain hot to very hot as the convective activity concentrates over the southwest and western highlands. Thunderstorms may produce localized heavy rain and hail in affected areas.
Additionally, officials noted that strong gusts could lead to dust storms that sharply reduce horizontal visibility, especially along the route connecting Wadi ad-Dawasir and Sharurah. Drivers are advised to prepare for sudden changes in road conditions and to follow official traffic guidance.
Regions affected and timing
Storms and rain are forecast for parts of Najran, Jazan, Asir and Al Baha, with the impact spreading to portions of the Mecca highlands. The National Center for Meteorology specifically warned of rainfall over Al Baha city and several neighboring governorates, naming Baljurashi, Al Aqiq, Al Qura, Bani Hasan, Al Mandaq, Al Makhwah, Qilwah, Al Hajrah and Ghamid Al-Zanad among the areas at risk. The center indicated the situation will persist through the evening advisory window.
These systems are convective in nature, meaning they can develop rapidly and produce short-lived but intense downpours, hail and lightning. Therefore, urban flash flooding and localized runoff are possible in low-lying and poorly drained areas. Residents and visitors in the affected regions should monitor local advisories and avoid standing water after heavy showers.
Red Sea marine conditions and shipping impacts
The forecast also described Red Sea marine conditions, noting variable wind patterns across the northern, central and southern sectors. Winds are expected northwesterly to northerly over the northern and central Red Sea, shifting southwesterly to southeasterly over the southern sector, with speeds typically between 12 and 36 km/h. The center added that winds may exceed 50 km/h in areas where thunderstorm clouds form, significantly elevating risk for small craft.
Wave heights were forecast from about 0.5 to 1.5 meters in most areas, but could rise above two meters in the southern Red Sea where thunderstorm development is strongest. Mariners are advised to exercise caution, maintain safe distances from convective cells, and follow any port or coast guard instructions. Ferry operators and offshore workers should prepare for rapidly changing sea states during the advisory period.
Advisories, transportation and public safety
The National Center for Meteorology emphasized several hazards tied to the forecast: lightning, strong gusts, hail, localized flooding and significant dust reduced visibility. Dust storms can cause near-zero visibility on roads, creating hazardous driving conditions. In particular, the stretch between Wadi ad-Dawasir and Sharurah was noted as susceptible to severe visibility impairment due to blowing dust.
Authorities often issue traffic restrictions and temporary road closures when visibility drops or when flooding damages infrastructure. Therefore, commuters should check official traffic updates before travel, secure outdoor items exposed to strong winds, and avoid outdoor activities during active thunderstorms. Agricultural stakeholders should also take precautions for vulnerable crops and livestock exposed to hail or heavy rain.
Meteorological context and causes
The center’s report attributes the disturbances to convective cloud development driven by regional instability and moisture influx from adjacent marine and inland areas. These conditions favor cumulonimbus formation, which produces thunderstorms, intense rainfall rates and hail. Wind gusts associated with convective downdrafts and frontal interactions can lift dust from arid surfaces, contributing to dust storms downwind.
Understanding this pattern helps explain why coastal and highland zones can experience different phenomena simultaneously: coastal sections face changing marine winds and rougher seas, while inland highlands may see heavy convective showers and localized hail. This combination increases the complexity of short-term forecasting and underscores the need for regular updates from meteorological authorities.
How residents and visitors should respond
People in affected regions should stay informed by following updates from the National Center for Meteorology and local authorities. During thunderstorms, seek shelter indoors, avoid open areas, and stay away from isolated tall objects and metal structures. If hail or flooding occurs, move vehicles to higher ground and do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
For those on the Red Sea, monitor marine advisories and be prepared for sudden wind shifts and heightened wave activity. Coastal residents should secure loose outdoor equipment and be cautious near exposed shorelines during strong southerly or southwesterly flow in the southern Red Sea.
Outlook and next steps
The National Center for Meteorology indicated the present advisory remains in effect until 9:00 p.m. local time, and it urged the public to monitor subsequent updates for potential extensions or changes in severity. Forecast uncertainty increases beyond the advisory window, so residents should continue to watch official channels over the next 24 to 48 hours for evolving guidance.
Authorities and emergency services will likely reassess conditions as storms progress, issuing travel advisories or additional warnings if necessary. In the coming hours, weather monitoring agencies will provide more detailed, location-specific forecasts to help people plan and respond safely.
