On January 6, 2025, Saudi Arabia’s National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued Red alerts for several regions, warning of ongoing severe weather, including heavy rainfall, hailstorms, thunderstorms, and strong winds. The intense weather is expected to persist until January 10.
The worst-hit areas on January 6 were Jeddah, Makkah, Riyadh, and Al-Baha, where flash floods, winds reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph), and high waves over 2 meters (6.6 feet) have caused significant disruptions. Poor visibility due to dust-laden winds compounded the hazardous conditions, with rainfall rates varying from moderate to heavy.
In Jeddah, the NCM issued a heightened alert as torrential rains and hailstorms battered the region, along with thunderstorms, continuing through January 8. The Prophet’s Mosque in Medina also reported heavy rainfall, and Makkah saw severe flooding.
Authorities have urged residents in affected regions, especially in Makkah, to avoid flood-prone areas, stay indoors, and exercise caution on the roads. The Crisis and Disaster Management Center in Makkah has been coordinating efforts to manage the disaster, with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) declaring full operational readiness. The SRCA deployed 1,420 staff members and 149 emergency vehicles, including ambulances and air rescue units, to ensure prompt medical assistance.
The storm system has also affected areas in the eastern region, Riyadh, and Qassim, with reports of hazardous travel conditions in areas like Az Zulfi, Al Ghat, and Ad Duwadimi due to torrential rains, hailstorms, and strong winds. Snowfall has been reported in northern regions, alongside sharply dropping temperatures.
The NCM continues to monitor the situation, advising the public to follow official safety instructions and prioritize road safety. The storm’s widespread impact has placed considerable strain on infrastructure and travel across multiple provinces.
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