Residents of Riyadh and surrounding areas are bracing for potentially severe weather as the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a rain warning for Thursday. Heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds, hail, and thunderstorms, is expected from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m., prompting proactive measures from local authorities. These measures include the suspension of in-person classes across a wide geographical area.
The alert encompasses Riyadh city and multiple governorates, including Diriyah, Thadiq, and Al-Kharj. The NCM forecasts conditions that could significantly reduce visibility and create hazardous situations such as flash flooding. The primary concern is the safety of the public, particularly students and school staff, during the peak period of inclement weather.
Understanding the Riyadh Rain Warning and School Closures
The decision to suspend in-person learning was announced by the Riyadh Education Department in direct response to the NCM’s early warning. This swift action underscores the region’s commitment to prioritizing safety amidst increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. The shift to remote education will utilize the Madrasati platform, ensuring continuity of learning despite the disruptions.
This isn’t the first time Saudi Arabia has taken preventative steps during periods of forecast heavy weather. The country has experienced unseasonably heavy rains in recent years, leading to infrastructure challenges and safety concerns. The government has invested in improved weather forecasting technology and infrastructure development to mitigate these risks.
Affected Areas and Educational Continuity
The school closures apply to a broad area, extending beyond the major urban center of Riyadh. Specifically, the suspension includes students and all staff – teachers and administrators – in Diriyah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dharmaa, Al-Kharj, Al-Hareeq, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahimiyah, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Ad-Dawadmi, Afif, Az-Zulfi, Al-Majmaah, Al-Ghat, and Shaqra governorates.
Remote learning options through Madrasati and other approved systems will be available during the suspension period. The use of these platforms aims to minimize disruption to the academic calendar and provide students with continued access to educational resources. The Education Department has affirmed its commitment to supporting both students and educators during this transition.
Potential Hazards Accompanying the Rainfall
The NCM’s warning highlights several specific hazards associated with the predicted rainfall. Strong winds are expected to accompany the storms, potentially causing damage to property and disrupting transportation. Reduced visibility, possibly reaching near-zero levels, poses a significant risk for drivers and pedestrians.
Flash flooding is a major concern, especially in low-lying areas and along seasonal waterways. The combination of heavy rainfall and potentially saturated ground increases the likelihood of rapid water accumulation. The risk of thunderstorms and lightning also necessitates precautions, such as avoiding open spaces and seeking shelter indoors during electrical storms. This situation could also impact local travel plans.
According to meteorological experts, these weather conditions arise from an interaction of weather systems over the Arabian Peninsula. These systems are bringing increased moisture from the Red Sea and the Gulf, combined with atmospheric instability. This type of weather is not uncommon during the transition between seasons, but the intensity of the forecast conditions warrants serious attention.
The civil defense authorities have also mobilized resources and are preparing to respond to any potential emergencies that may arise as a result of the storm. Residents are being urged to remain indoors if possible, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official updates and instructions from the NCM and local authorities.
While the current forecast suggests the heaviest rainfall will occur between 5 a.m and 3 p.m. on Thursday, the situation remains fluid. Variations in the storm’s track and intensity could alter the timing and severity of the impact. Monitoring the latest updates is crucial for residents in the affected areas.
Following the suspension of classes, attention will turn to assessing any damage caused by the rainfall. Early reports will likely focus on infrastructure impacts, such as road conditions and potential flooding. The decision regarding the resumption of in-person classes will be made based on an evaluation of those reports and updated forecasts from the NCM. Residents are advised to continue monitoring news channels and official social media accounts for further information regarding the evolving weather situation and any related announcements.
