Saudi Arabia Weather Warning: Thunderstorms and Flash Floods Forecast Until 10 November

Saudi Arabia has issued a weather warning for thunderstorms, heavy rain and possible flash floods across most parts of the Kingdom from Friday, November 6, until Tuesday, November 10. The General Directorate of Civil Defence has urged residents to exercise caution, remain in safe locations and avoid valleys and areas where floodwaters may accumulate.

The Saudi Arabia weather warning covers a five-day period of unstable conditions, with the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall in several regions. The forecast also includes hailstorms, strong downdraft winds and blowing dust, which could reduce visibility and increase risks for motorists and pedestrians.

Authorities have called on the public to follow official weather updates and safety instructions throughout the warning period.

What the Saudi Arabia Weather Warning Means for Residents

The Saudi Arabia weather warning signals an increased risk of hazardous weather across a wide area of the Kingdom. Heavy rainfall can cause water to accumulate rapidly in valleys and low-lying locations, while thunderstorms and strong winds may create dangerous conditions on roads.

The Civil Defence has advised residents to:

• Remain in safe locations during thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
• Stay away from valleys, flood channels and places where water collects.
• Avoid swimming in floodwaters.
• Follow official safety instructions through media outlets and social media platforms.
• Monitor weather updates from the relevant authorities.

The Saudi Arabia weather warning is particularly important for people living in or travelling through areas expected to receive heavy rain. Conditions can change quickly, and residents should not assume that a road or valley is safe simply because rainfall has temporarily stopped.

For readers in the UAE, our UAE weekend weather outlook provides separate coverage of weather conditions closer to home.

Heavy Rain Forecast for Mecca Region

The National Centre for Meteorology has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across the Mecca region, with the possibility of flash floods, hailstorms and strong downdrafts accompanied by blowing dust.

The Saudi Arabia weather warning specifically identifies the following locations in the Mecca region:

• Taif
• Maysan
• Adham
• Al Ardiyat
• Mecca
• Al Kamil
• Al Jumum
• Bahrah
• Khulais
• Jeddah
• Rabigh
• Turbah
• Al Khurmah
• Ranyah
• Al Muwayh
• Al Qunfudhah
• Al Lith

The forecast indicates that rainfall intensity may vary across the region. However, the potential for flash floods and hail means residents should remain alert and follow local weather advisories.

Riyadh Region: Heavy Rain in Several Areas

Parts of the Riyadh region are also expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall during the Saudi Arabia weather warning period.

The NCM has identified Afif, Al Dawadmi, Shaqra, Thadiq, Al Ghat, Zulfi, Al Majmaah, Rumah and Marrat as areas where heavy rain, flash floods, hail and dust-raising winds are expected.

The forecast for Riyadh city itself is different. Riyadh, along with Al Quwayiyah, Al Rayn, Dhurma, Al Hariq and Al Kharj, is expected to receive light to moderate rainfall.

This variation in rainfall intensity highlights the importance of checking local forecasts rather than treating the entire Riyadh region as having the same weather conditions.

Nine Other Saudi Regions Under Weather Alert

The Saudi Arabia weather warning extends beyond Mecca and Riyadh. The NCM has also forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across nine additional regions of the Kingdom.

The regions include:

• Jazan
• Asir
• Al Baha
• Medina
• Hail
• Qassim
• Al Jouf
• Northern Borders
• Eastern Province

The forecast warns of possible flash floods and hailstorms. Strong downdraft winds may also raise dust and reduce visibility in affected areas.

The wide geographical coverage means the Saudi Arabia weather warning is relevant to residents, commuters and travellers across much of the Kingdom.

Flash Flood Warning: What Drivers and Pedestrians Should Know

Heavy rain, reduced visibility and rapidly rising water levels can create serious risks for road users.

The Civil Defence has specifically warned the public to stay away from valleys and areas where floodwaters collect. Motorists should avoid attempting to drive through flooded roads or water channels, as the depth and strength of flowing water may be difficult to judge.

During the Saudi Arabia weather warning, residents should also be cautious around areas affected by hail, strong winds and blowing dust.

People planning journeys through affected regions are advised to monitor official alerts before travelling and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

For separate regional travel developments, readers can follow MKV Digital Gulf Bulletin’s coverage of Etihad’s Riyadh and Dammam flight cancellations.

How Long Will the Saudi Arabia Weather Warning Last?

The Saudi Arabia weather warning is scheduled to cover the period from Friday, November 6, through Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

The Civil Defence has urged residents to comply with safety instructions throughout the warning period. The NCM’s forecasts identify different rainfall intensities across the regions, meaning conditions may vary by location and day.

Residents should continue monitoring the National Centre for Meteorology’s official early warning system for location-specific alerts and changes to the forecast.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Saudi Arabia weather warning last?

The warning covers Friday, November 6, through Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Thunderstorms and rainfall are expected across most parts of the Kingdom during this period.

Which regions are covered by the Saudi Arabia weather warning?

The warning includes the Mecca and Riyadh regions, as well as Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Medina, Hail, Qassim, Al Jouf, the Northern Borders and the Eastern Province.

Is Mecca expected to experience heavy rain?

Yes. The NCM forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall across several locations in the Mecca region, including Taif, Jeddah, Rabigh, Mecca, Al Lith and Al Qunfudhah. Flash floods and hailstorms are also possible.

Will Riyadh city experience heavy rainfall?

Riyadh city is forecast to receive light to moderate rainfall. However, moderate to heavy rain is expected in other parts of the Riyadh region, including Afif, Al Dawadmi and Shaqra.

What should residents do during the Saudi Arabia weather warning?

Residents should remain in safe locations, avoid valleys and flood-prone areas, refrain from swimming in floodwaters and follow official safety instructions.

What hazards are expected during the warning?

The forecast includes thunderstorms, heavy rain, flash floods, hailstorms, strong downdraft winds and blowing dust. These conditions may also reduce visibility and create risks for motorists and pedestrians.

Where can residents check official weather alerts?

Residents can monitor the National Centre for Meteorology’s official early warning system and follow updates from the General Directorate of Civil Defence.