Saudi Arabia: Adverse weather conditions forecast in central and western regions April 29

The Saudi National Center of Meteorology has issued a red warning (the highest on a four-tier scale) for heavy rainfall and strong winds April 29. The alert covers most of Al Bahah, Al Qassim, Hail, Mecca, and Medina provinces, and parts of Aseer, Jazan, and Riyadh provinces. Various other orange and yellow-level warnings for similar conditions are in place across the rest of the country.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding. Due to the region's arid nature and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulation could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding or strong winds impact utility networks. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the east coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with 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.