The Saudi Arabia National Center of Meteorology has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rain across large parts of the Kingdom through Friday, prompting the General Directorate of Civil Defence to issue an emergency alert for residents as weather conditions are expected to remain unstable over several days.
Read More: PMD warns of heavy rain with flash flood risk in northern regions
Authorities urged the public to strictly follow safety instructions, remain in secure indoor locations during periods of heavy rainfall, and avoid flood-prone areas, especially valleys, streams, and low-lying roads where flash floods may develop quickly and without warning. Motorists were also advised to exercise caution due to reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.
🌧️ الأرصاد تحذّر من أمطار غزيرة وسيول على الرياض ومكة والمدينة ومناطق عدة اليوم
▪️ الحالة الجوية مصحوبة بزخات برد ورياح نشطة مثيرة للأتربة والغبار.
▪️ توقعات بتأثيرات على السواحل تشمل ارتفاع الأمواج في البحر الأحمر والخليج العربيhttps://t.co/eooSd7eime— صحيفة سبق الإلكترونية (@sabqorg) April 20, 2026
Officials further warned against swimming or attempting to cross flowing water during rainfall events, stressing that even shallow water currents can pose serious risks. Residents were encouraged to monitor official weather updates and avoid relying on unverified social media reports.
According to the forecast, the Makkah region is expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by hail and dust-raising winds, which may affect visibility and outdoor activities across several governorates including Taif, Maysan, Adham, Turbah, Al-Muwaiah, Al-Khurma, Ranyah, and Al-Ardiyat.
In the Riyadh region, weather conditions are also expected to deteriorate, with heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding across multiple cities and governorates including Diriyah, Al-Kharj, Al-Muzahmiyah, Al-Quwayiyah, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Zulfi, Al-Majmaah, Shaqra, and nearby areas.
Civil Defence authorities emphasized that emergency response teams remain on high alert and that residents should immediately report any hazardous situations through official emergency channels.
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They added that non-essential travel should be avoided during peak rainfall periods, and residents should ensure they have access to emergency supplies and communication devices in case of disruptions to services.