Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, Feb 4: The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has sounded an urgent alert for the Makkah region, warning of a sharp and unusual shift in weather as powerful winter storms move in. From February 4, 2026, meteorologists have been closely monitoring an active weather system expected to trigger moderate to heavy thunderstorms over the Holy Capital and nearby governorates.

The February disturbance is part of a wider atmospheric pattern pushing moisture into western and northern parts of the Kingdom, dramatically altering normally dry conditions. Dusty skies are giving way to rain-laden clouds, with dark formations already visible over the Grand Mosque — a rare sight that signals a strong spell of unsettled weather.

According to the NCM, the expected conditions go well beyond routine rainfall. Thunderstorms may be accompanied by hail and intense downdraft winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kmph. Such winds could whip up dust and sand, drastically reducing visibility, particularly in open areas and along highways. Rainfall intensity in some locations could exceed 10 mm per hour, significantly raising the risk of sudden flash floods in valleys and low-lying neighbourhoods.

Residents have also been cautioned about possible hail damage, with advice to secure outdoor belongings and avoid leaving vehicles in exposed areas. Along the Red Sea coast, including cities such as Jeddah and Rabigh, the storm system is expected to generate rough sea conditions, with wave heights potentially crossing the two-metre mark.

In response, the General Directorate of Civil Defense and the Crisis and Disaster Management Center in Makkah have moved to full operational readiness. Authorities are urging the public to strictly follow safety instructions, especially avoiding valleys and wadis that can rapidly turn into dangerous torrents during heavy rain.

Pilgrims performing religious rituals have been advised to remain extremely cautious in open spaces and to comply with directions issued by security personnel. Motorists, meanwhile, are being urged to limit travel during peak storm hours due to the risk of flooded roads, poor visibility and strong wind gusts.

The impact of this weather system is not confined to Makkah alone. Forecasts indicate that several other regions across the Kingdom — including Riyadh, Jazan, Asir and Al Baha — may also experience thunderstorms, rainfall and occasional hail, continuing a pattern of volatile weather seen in recent months. Previous alerts have highlighted similar risks of flash flooding and dust storms across multiple provinces, underlining the need for heightened awareness.

Within Makkah, conditions are expected to change rapidly, with short but intense bursts of rain, thunder and hail possible throughout the day.

While the city’s infrastructure can generally handle lighter showers, prolonged or heavy downpours may still lead to water accumulation at intersections, narrow streets and areas with limited drainage, increasing the risk of localized flooding and slippery surfaces. Authorities have urged residents and visitors alike to stay updated through official channels and prioritise safety as the storm unfolds.