Thunderstorms from December 6–11 will bring heavy rain, hail, dust storms, and flash floods nationwide/Representative Image

Saudi Arabia is preparing for several days of unstable weather as thunderstorms move across nearly every region. National forecasts point to heavy rain, dust storms and the risk of flash floods, prompting safety alerts from the National Center for Meteorology.

Unstable weather

The National Center for Meteorology forecasts thunderstorms of varying intensity from Saturday, December 6, through Thursday, December 11. The system is set to affect a wide range of regions, including Asir, Al Baha, Makkah, Madinah, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, Jazan, Al Jouf, the Northern Borders, Riyadh and the Eastern Province.The NCM notes that the weather will not be limited to rainfall. Active downdrafts may develop and trigger dust storms, while hail is possible in some areas. Coastal regions may experience high waves in both the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf as conditions intensify.The center warns that heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods, especially in valleys and low-lying terrain. Makkah Region is among the areas expected to receive moderate to heavy rain, which may bring hail and dust storms.Rainfall of similar intensity may reach Tabuk, Madinah, Al Jouf, the Northern Borders, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province and Al Baha, with all of them facing the possibility of flash floods, hail and dust storms. Riyadh is forecast to see moderate rainfall, while Aseer and Jazan are also expected to experience steady rain.The National Center for Meteorology is urging the public to stay updated on weather developments and to take precautions during travel, especially in regions likely to be affected by heavy rain or flooding. Residents are encouraged to rely on verified sources, including the NCM website, its social media channels and the Anwaa app.With several regions expecting days of unstable weather, the NCM stresses the importance of awareness and caution. Thunderstorms, hail, dust storms and flood risks are expected to unfold across the Kingdom, making reliable information and safe movement critical in the days ahead.