Today : Sep 09, 2025
Climate & Environment
19 March 2025

Severe Weather Warnings Announced Amid Heavy Rains And Winds

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds expected to affect parts of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan this week.

On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, the National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has issued warnings for several regions as a significant weather system moves through the area, bringing heavy rain, hail, and active winds. Regions affected include Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Mecca, and Medina, with varying intensities of rain ranging from mild to heavy.

The forecast indicates that these rainstorms could lead to flash flooding in certain areas, particularly in regions experiencing the heaviest rainfall. As a result of the inclement weather, the center has cautioned residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding conditions.

Nationally, additional areas such as Riyadh, Najran, Qassim, and Hail are also under watch, as lighter to moderate rainfall is expected. Winds will vary in strength, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h in the southern regions. This convergence of heavy rains and winds could create dangerous driving conditions and reduced visibility. The weather will also impact the Red Sea, where winds are expected to be between 15-35 km/h, with wave heights ranging from 1 to 2 meters.

In Alexandria, Egypt, the start of the "Big Sun" phenomenon brought unstable weather, with moderate to heavy rainfall overnight causing disruptions. Despite the adverse conditions, traffic and maritime navigation reportedly continued smoothly.

Weather forecasts indicate temperatures in Alexandria between 14°C at night and 20°C during the day, along with winds clocking in at 34 km/h and humidity levels reaching around 70%. Rainfall was reported to be heavier in the eastern district compared to western Alexandria, which saw lighter precipitation.

The Alexandria Port Authority confirmed that all maritime operations were functioning normally, even as weather warnings had been issued for the potential disturbances.

Moreover, citizens were advised to exercise caution due to expected thunderstorms, while cooler temperatures were predicted to follow the rain. The region is currently in a pattern of weather characterized by 23 distinct "nows," including the current "Big Sun" event, which is anticipated to lead to more rainstorms in the upcoming days.

In Jordan, the weather has also turned, with cold air and moisture leading to rain expected over the next few days. Temperatures are set to decrease, particularly in the northern and central regions, creating conditions ripe for potential hail.

Authorities noted that officials are watching for the potential formation of torrents, especially in northern areas as the cold air mass intensifies. Predictions for rainfall extend into the south as clouds continue to thicken throughout the coming evenings.

A notable component of this weather pattern is the cold front bringing extremely low temperatures in contrast to recent hot spells—sometimes reaching below 0°C in mountainous regions. This fluctuation is a stark reminder of the region's volatile climate, where conditions can change rapidly.

Additionally, meteorologists in the area have predicted strong winds generating dust, primarily affecting desert areas.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense has been actively informing the public about the conditions, advising them to stay away from valleys due to the risk of dust storms and the potential for flash floods.

Weather patterns are expected to further evolve leading into Friday, with cold and damp conditions persisting as another wave of precipitation is anticipated. The previous heat wave will soon be forgotten as these rains come in.

As a result, temperatures are predicted to drop, reinforcing the drastic transition from warmth to cold, with people advised to dress warmly in order to adapt to the November drop in temperatures.

In conclusion, citizens across affected areas, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, are encouraged to be vigilant and prepared for the ensuing weather challenges over the coming days, keeping a close eye on advisories from meteorological authorities as conditions develop.