Saudi Arabia suspends in-person classes in multiple regions amid heavy rain

DAMMAM — In-person classes were suspended Sunday across several regions in Saudi Arabia as authorities responded to ongoing heavy rainfall and weather warnings.Education departments in the Eastern Province, Al-Baha, and Asir announced the suspension of physical attendance in schools, shifting to remote learning via the “Madrasati” platform.In the Eastern Province, classes were halted in Dammam and governorates including Khobar, Qatif, Jubail, Ras Tanura, Abqaiq, and Al-Ahsa, based on reports from the National Center for Meteorology.Al-Baha authorities also suspended in-person classes in central sectors and governorates such as Bani Hassan, Baljurashi, and Al-Mandaq, citing safety concerns.In Asir, the decision covered all schools within areas under red weather alerts, including Abha, Khamis Mushait, Ahad Rafidah, Sarat Abidah, Al-Namas, Dhahran Al-Janoub, Tanomah, Balqarn, Al-Harjah, Al-Raboah, and Al-Farsha.Several universities also suspended in-person classes, including Al-Baha University, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Khalid University.Authorities confirmed that classes would continue remotely for students and staff, emphasizing that the measures were taken to ensure safety and in line with meteorological warnings.The National Center for Meteorology said heavy rain affecting Riyadh would continue into early Sunday, with intensity expected to gradually ease.The Civil Defense urged residents in Riyadh and the Eastern Province to remain cautious, follow safety instructions, and avoid risk-prone areas.Earlier warnings indicated that most regions of the Kingdom could experience moderate to heavy rainfall through Tuesday.