12 Dec 2022 | 08:59 AM UTC
Saudi Arabia: Adverse weather forecast across the southwest through at least Dec. 15 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across southwestern Saudi Arabia through at least Dec. 15. Flooding ongoing.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across southwestern Saudi Arabia, including Mecca and Medina, through at least Dec. 15. Strong wind gusts and lightning could accompany thunderstorms. As of early Dec. 12, the Saudi Arabia National Center for Meteorology has issued red (the highest level on a three-tier scale) heavy rain warnings across southwestern Mecca Province. Orange heavy rain warnings are in place across Al Bahah, far northwestern Jazan, the rest of western Mecca, and far southeastern Medina provinces. Yellow heavy rain warnings are in effect across the rest of the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Reports indicate that portions of Mecca City are flooded, resulting in traffic disruptions. Authorities have warned residents to avoid going outdoors unless necessary. Due to heavy rainfall, the tunnels in Jeddah City are temporarily closed as a precaution. Several education institutions suspended classes Dec. 12.
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 lack 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.
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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible 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
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.
