NCM forecasts thunderstorms in most regions from today until Saturday

The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) says thunderstorms will hit most of the kingdom from Tuesday 13 October to Saturday 17 October, ranging from light to heavy. It warns of possible flash floods and hail, dust and sand storms with gusts of 60 km/h or more, and higher waves along the coasts.

Moderate to heavy rain is expected in Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and the Makkah region, including Makkah city, Taif, Al Jumum, Bahra, Maysan, Adham and Al Ardiyat, until Saturday. Light to moderate rain is forecast for parts of Madinah, Tabuk, Al Jouf, the Northern Borders, Hail and Najran, and for southern parts of the Riyadh region and the Eastern Province. Jeddah, Rabigh and Khulais can expect light rain from Tuesday to Thursday, and Al Lith and Al Qunfudhah light to moderate rain.

The centre says early forecasts point to rain continuing in some areas until the end of next week.

If you live in or are driving through the south-west or the Makkah region this week, check the NCM's warnings before you set out, on its website, the Anwa app or its official accounts. Keep away from valleys and low ground when it rains, and expect slower roads where storms and dust cut visibility.