Unusually heavy rainfall and hailstorms swept across parts of Saudi Arabia, transforming desert landscapes into a wintry scene, authorities reported on Saturday.
The extreme weather primarily affected the northern regions of Tabuk and Hail, where dark clouds gathered before torrential rains and hail blanketed the arid terrain. The sudden downpour caused temperatures to drop significantly, creating an uncharacteristically cold environment.
Saudi Arabia’s meteorological department has issued warnings that unstable weather conditions will continue until Tuesday, with varying intensities of rain expected across multiple cities. Residents in affected areas reported a sharp decline in temperatures, while local authorities advised caution due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Earlier, the General Directorate of Civil Defense had issued a weather alert, predicting moderate to heavy rainfall across much of the country until Friday. Regions impacted include Makkah, Riyadh, Medina, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al Jouf, Al Baha, and Asir, according to *Gulf News*.
The Civil Defense has urged residents to take necessary precautions, avoid flood-prone areas, and refrain from swimming in valleys. Authorities have also encouraged the public to stay informed through official channels for the latest weather updates and safety instructions.
In response to the adverse weather, the Makkah Education Department announced the suspension of in-person classes for students in Makkah and the governorates of Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Bahra. Classes will be conducted remotely via the Madrasati platform.
Similarly, Umm Al Qura University has transitioned to remote learning on Tuesday, aligning with the National Center of Meteorology’s forecasts. This shift applies to all university campuses, affiliated offices, and colleges within the Makkah region.
The unusual weather event highlights the Kingdom’s vulnerability to extreme climate conditions and underscores the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines during such occurrences.
