Saudi Arabia, Kuwait: Adverse weather forecast for some areas until at least Nov. 19

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across parts of northern Saudi Arabia and Kuwait until at least Nov. 19. Various areas in the region are likely to experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong gusts, and/or foggy or dusty conditions in connection with the weather system.

As of Nov. 17, Saudi Arabia's National Center for Meteorology has issued orange warnings (middle level on a three-tier scale) for moderate-to-heavy rainfall and raised dust across much of Hail Province. Orange warnings for moderate-to-heavy rainfall are also in effect in the northern parts of Eastern Province. Additionally, authorities have issued yellow rain and fog warnings across much of Northern Borders and Al Jowf provinces.

The Kuwait Meteorological Center has issued a weather warning (the higher of two warning levels) for thunderstorms and periodically heavy downpours across parts of the country Nov. 17-18. Storms may be accompanied by wind speeds of more than 50 kph (31 mph), which could lead to reduced visibility due to dust storms and rough seas in some areas. Rainfall may impact parts of Kuwait until early Nov. 19. 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 cause transport disruptions in affected areas. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel. Traffic and commercial trucking delays may 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and 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

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 areas experiencing adverse weather conditions. 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
Kuwait Meteorological Center