Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast predicting widespread rainfall across much of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the next week. The anticipated precipitation, beginning Wednesday, January 15th, and continuing through Tuesday, January 20th, is expected to impact travel and daily life in several regions. Residents are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential disruptions due to the forecasted weather conditions.
The areas most likely to experience significant rainfall include the southern regions of Jazan and Asir, the western highlands around Al Baha and Taif, and extending eastward towards Riyadh and the Eastern Province. The NCM’s forecast is based on data from the Saudi numerical weather model and is visualized through an animated map detailing the expected movement and intensity of the precipitation.
Detailed Rainfall Forecast for Saudi Arabia
The initial phase of the weather system will bring rainfall to the southern parts of the Kingdom on Wednesday afternoon. Specifically, Jazan, Al Qunfudhah, and areas around Abha in Asir are expected to see the first showers. The NCM indicates that the rain will gradually spread northward and eastward throughout the day.
By Wednesday evening, the intensity of the rainfall is expected to lessen over Al Baha and Al Qunfudhah, while precipitation begins in the eastern parts of the Makkah Region. Showers are predicted to continue overnight in Jazan, potentially leading to localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Progression Across the Kingdom
Thursday will see the rainfall extend further north and east. Early Thursday, the southern and northwestern parts of Jazan and Asir will remain affected, while the precipitation moves towards the Riyadh Region, approaching Al Dawadmi. By dawn, rain is expected to reach Riyadh city itself and spread across the area between Riyadh and Al Dawadmi, also impacting the Asir coastline and Jazan islands.
Later on Thursday morning, the Eastern Province, including major cities like Al Ahsa and Dammam, is forecast to receive rainfall. However, the NCM anticipates a weakening of the showers over Riyadh as the day progresses. The western regions of Asir, Jazan, Al Baha, and Al Qunfudhah are expected to continue experiencing precipitation, with lighter showers developing in the southern Makkah Region, including Taif.
A resurgence of rainfall is predicted for Friday evening, impacting western Jazan, eastern Asir, and the southern Makkah Region. This activity is expected to diminish overnight. Scattered, light showers are then anticipated over the southern Makkah Region and Al Baha on Saturday, extending from Taif to Al Qunfudhah, with a slight chance of continued precipitation near the Holy City.
Sunday’s forecast suggests scattered rainfall over parts of the Makkah Region, including Jeddah, before shifting south towards Madinah. The NCM reports that the rain is expected to expand across Makkah and Taif, and reach northern Riyadh and parts of the Eastern Province by evening.
The heaviest precipitation is expected to shift towards Riyadh, Dammam, and Al Ahsa by early Monday. Light to moderate rainfall may persist through midday in parts of the Eastern Province, Asir, Al Baha, Al Qunfudhah, and southern Makkah, particularly Taif. The NCM anticipates a gradual subsidence of the rain by Monday evening, leaving only isolated showers in some western areas.
The final phase of the weather system is expected on Tuesday, January 20th, with potential for lingering showers in parts of Al Qunfudhah and near Al Baha city. This marks the expected end of the widespread precipitation event.
The NCM has strongly advised residents to stay updated on the latest weather reports and take necessary precautions. This includes avoiding travel in areas prone to flash floods, securing loose objects, and being prepared for potential disruptions to daily routines. The Ministry of Interior may issue further guidance depending on the evolving situation.
Looking ahead, the NCM will continue to monitor the weather system and provide updated forecasts as needed. The accuracy of long-range forecasts remains subject to change, and residents should rely on official sources for the most current information. The potential for further weather developments in the region will be closely watched in the coming days.