Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Hit Saudi Arabia and India
Recent forecasts alert residents in both Saudi Arabia and India to prepare for severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential flash floods.
Saudi Arabia is on high alert as the General Directorate of Civil Defence has warned civilians to remain vigilant from March 25 to March 28, 2025. The forecast anticipates widespread heavy rainfall across several regions with moderate to heavy precipitation expected in Mecca, Al Baha, Asir, and Jazan, alongside potential flash floods, hail, and dust storms.
Specifically, areas including Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al Ardiyat in Mecca are projected to experience heavy rainfall, raising significant concerns regarding flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Meanwhile, Mecca city, Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Bahra are expected to see light to moderate rainfall.
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has warned of thunderstorms with associated hail and strong winds impacting eastern regions, including Riyadh, Najran, and Asir alongside increased risk from dust storms in coastal areas of Tabuk. The recommendations from Civil Defence emphasize the importance of following safety instructions, which have been disseminated via various media channels to keep the public informed and safe during this hazardous weather period.
In India, similar weather phenomena are emerging as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts thunderstorms, rain, and lightning in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand from March 25 to March 28, following a new western disturbance that occurred on March 24. Residents in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand can expect thunderstorms and rainfall through March 27, with heavy rainfall and potential snowfall projected in isolated areas of Kashmir on March 26.
The IMD also anticipates heavy rainfall and snowfall at isolated places over Arunachal Pradesh on March 28 and 29, with rising temperatures expected in North West India between 2-4 degrees Celsius over the next couple of days. A yellow alert has been placed for Saurashtra, Kutch, and western Rajasthan amid rising temperatures and the likelihood of heat wave conditions particularly in southwest Rajasthan and Gujarat on March 25.
These weather systems indicate a complex interplay of atmospheric conditions creating unusual and severe weather. Both nations grapple with their unique responses to such challenges, balancing public safety concerns with the unpredictable elements posed by nature.
In summary, residents in both Saudi Arabia and India must prepare for adverse weather situations, ensuring safety measures are in place as conditions evolve through the week. Weather experts stress the importance of staying informed about updates from meteorological authorities and adhering to safety protocols to mitigate potential risks associated with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
