Civil Defense urges caution as thunderstorms forecast in a number of Saudi regions through Monday

RIYADH — The General Directorate of Civil Defense urged the public to exercise caution amid forecasts of thunderstorms across parts of Saudi Arabia from Wednesday through Monday. The Civil Defense called on the public to remain in safe places, stay away from valleys and areas where flood waters collect, and avoid swimming in floodwaters. It also urged the public to follow instructions issued through various media outlets and social media platforms.According to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), the Makkah region is expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall that may cause flooding and hail, accompanied by downdrafts that stir up dust and sand. The forecast covers Taif, Maysan, Adham, and Al-Ardiyat, while Makkah, Al-Kamil, Al-Jumum, Bahrah, Allith, and Qunfudhah are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall.The regions of Jazan, Asir, and Al-Baha are also forecast to receive moderate to heavy rainfall that may cause flooding and hail, accompanied by dust- and sand-raising downdrafts. Light to moderate rainfall is forecast for Madinah and Najran regions.