Arabia Peninsula, Levant: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia through at least April 29 /update 1

Event

Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall and possible flooding are forecast across Jordan, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia through at least April 29. Low visibility due to dust is forecast across the affected area. As of early April 25, the Saudi Arabia National Center for Meteorology has issued orange (second-highest level on a three-tier scale) thunderstorm warnings for Al Jowf, Mecca, and Northern Borders provinces. Yellow thunderstorm, heavy rain, and low visibility warnings are in effect for the rest of the affected area.

The Jordan Meteorological Department has warned of possible torrential rains in valleys and low-lying areas of eastern and southern Jordan. Dangerous travel conditions are possible in areas with rain. Low visibility due to dust is forecast across most of the country,

The Kuwait Meteorological Center has issued red (higher level on a two-tier scale) thunderstorm, rain, and strong wind warnings. Scattered rain with possible thunderstorms and strong winds are forecast. The winds may raise dust over certain areas, resulting in low visibility. Waves of more than 1.8 meters (6 feet) are possible. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities may issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, and/or landslides impact utility networks.

Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.

Transport
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the affected area. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including but not limited to King Abdulaziz International (JED), King Khaled International (RUH), Queen Alia International (AMM), and Kuwait International (KWI) airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Confirm flights. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Review contingency plans. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Center for Meteorology - Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Arabic)
Jordan Meteorological Department (Arabic)
Kuwait Meteorological Center