Severe weather events have wreaked havoc across multiple regions, with heavy rains and flash floods leading to chaos and disruption. Various countries, including Tonga, Saudi Arabia, and parts of the UK, are currently under weather alerts as conditions worsen, with local authorities urging residents to take precautions.
Starting with Tonga, the Tonga Meteorological Services reported on January 7, 2024, about a tropical disturbance impacting the Niuas region. Locals are experiencing fresh to strong winds with gusts reaching gale force, as well as heavy rain. The potential for the disturbance to develop fully is low, but the region remains under significant threat with flash flood advisories issued. "A heavy damaging swell warning is in force for Niuatoputapu and NIuafo’ou coastal waters," the advisory stated, with expectations of possible flooding due to the excessive rain.
Meanwhile, severe weather events reached Saudi Arabia, where Madinah and other areas have been plunged underwater due to intense rainstorms. Reports describe streets turning to rivers, disrupting daily life and posing risks to motorists. From January 6 to the expected continuation on January 8, the National Meteorological Center has issued red alerts, particularly for Jeddah, where officials warn of torrential downpours. "The storms could disrupt daily life, with possible traffic delays and flooding in affected areas," they advised. Heavy rains, accompanied by hail and dust-laden winds, are anticipated across several provinces including Riyadh, Makkah, and Al-Baha.
Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport has already reported flight delays due to severe rain and high winds. Travelers are cautioned to check with airlines as disruptions continue to be significant. "Flash flood warnings were also issued," local reports confirmed, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
On the other side of the globe, Surrey, UK, is facing its own crisis. Following days of rain, the Environment Agency has issued multiple flood alerts, with warnings urging residents to "act now" to protect their homes and lives. Flood alerts cover areas such as Lingfield and Leatherhead, where local authorities forecast significant flooding affecting properties near major rivers. Residents are advised to move valuables to higher ground and avoid flood-prone areas. The alerts come after several weather warnings had been issued.
Finally, across Zimbabwe, the Meteorological Services Department has forecast heavy rains, thunderstorms, and potential flooding expected to last until January 11, 2025. An advisory highlights the possibility of downpours exceeding 50 millimeters within just 24 hours. Areas such as Matabeleland North and Manicaland Provinces are expecting scattered thundershowers. Residents are urged to prepare for possible flooding, cautioning those living downstream from areas having previously experienced rain. "Violent storms could lead to falling trees, blown-off rooftops, and collapsing billboards due to strong winds," the department warned.
Overall, as these severe weather disturbances affect various regions globally, the common thread remains the urgent need for caution and preparedness among residents. With significant impacts on infrastructure and daily activities observed, local authorities are closely monitoring the situations and providing timely updates as needed.