JAKARTA – Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued urgent weather warnings for thunderstorms across multiple regions of the Kingdom, with authorities advising citizens to avoid flood-prone locations and waterways through at least December 18.

Widespread Severe Weather Expected

The meteorology center’s Sunday forecast predicts moderate to heavy thunderstorms that could trigger flash flooding across numerous provinces. The severe weather is expected to bring hail and strong winds capable of stirring up dust and sand storms.

Regions on high alert include Riyadh, Qassim, Hail, Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, and portions of the Eastern Province. Meanwhile, lighter to moderate storm activity is anticipated in areas of the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, and Tabuk provinces.

Civil Defense Issues Safety Advisory

The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued a separate public safety warning, strongly advising residents to steer clear of valleys and areas susceptible to flash floods until December 18. The caution comes as the Kingdom experiences its full winter weather pattern.

Desert Landscapes Transformed by Recent Rainfall

In recent days, earlier precipitation has dramatically transformed Saudi Arabia’s arid landscapes, creating spectacular natural scenery that has attracted outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

Al-Nafud Desert Revival: The Great Nafud Desert in northern Saudi Arabia has experienced a remarkable transformation following moderate to heavy rainfall. The precipitation has converted golden sand dunes into breathtaking formations, while creating streams and lakes across the previously parched terrain. Plants have begun sprouting throughout the desert, and the cooler temperatures have made the area a popular destination for camping enthusiasts from Rafha governorate and beyond.

Royal Reserve Rejuvenation: The Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Royal Reserve, the Kingdom’s second-largest protected natural area spanning parts of Northern Borders, Hail, Qassim, Al-Jouf, and Eastern Province, has been revitalized by the rainfall.

Wadi Arar Flows Again: In the Northern Borders province, Wadi Arar has come back to life, replenishing all 11 operational dams in the region. The deserts surrounding Arar City have become captivating destinations for hikers and nature lovers, with flowing streams winding through sand dunes and ravines creating stunning vistas.

Mountain Regions Wrapped in Winter Beauty

In the southwestern provinces of Asir and neighboring areas, fog enveloping mountain peaks and the city of Abha has created picturesque winter scenes that are drawing nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Further south in Najran province, sustained rainfall has increased vegetation coverage and revitalized natural waterways throughout the valleys.

Wadi Mughaydid Highlight: One particularly striking location is Wadi Mughaydid, situated on the slopes of the Maghra Mountains in the Sarawat range in northwest Najran. This 25-kilometer valley, stretching from Bir Askar Park to Shaab Baran, is celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty. Its unique geography blends lush plains with towering mountain peaks, making it an ideal spot for hiking and nature exploration.

The dramatic weather conditions showcase both the beauty and potential dangers of Saudi Arabia’s winter season, emphasizing the importance of heeding meteorological warnings while appreciating the Kingdom’s transformed natural landscapes.

Original Article:

Arab News. (2025, December 14). Saudi meteorology center warns of heavy rain across Kingdom, public told to avoid flood-prone areas. Retrieved from https://www.arabnews.com/node/2626185/saudi-arabia