NCM Warns of Thunderstorms, Hail and Dust Winds

The National Center for Meteorology has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by hail and active winds over parts of Jazan, Asir, Al‑Baha and the highlands of the Makkah region during August 2026, urging residents to stay alert to changing conditions.

Forecasts indicate thundery rain with hail and active surface winds stirring dust and sand may extend at times to Najran, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province. Reduced horizontal visibility is expected in some areas, particularly along the southern coastal parts of the Makkah region and the coastal road toward Jazan.

The mid‑2026 weather pattern has repeatedly brought moderate to heavy thunderstorms and a risk of flash floods in parts of Jazan, Asir, Al‑Baha and Makkah, along with dust‑raising winds affecting Riyadh, the Eastern Province, Madinah, Makkah, Najran, the Northern Borders, Hail, Al‑Qassim, Tabuk and Al‑Jouf at different times.

How to stay updated

The center operates an Early Warning System that uses color-coded levels, including a Red Alert for raised dust and dust storms. An updated red alert for dust storms was active on 17–18 August 2026. Daily city and regional forecasts are typically valid for the same day and up to 24 hours, while early warning alerts specify a start and end window, often between 3 and 24 hours and sometimes extended in later updates.

All forecasts and warnings are provided free of charge through the center's official website, its early‑warning portal, its mobile applications and its social media channels, though standard data charges from telecom providers may apply. No paid subscriptions, premium access fees or special charges apply to weather information, and no fee‑based government platforms are required to view thunderstorm, hail or dust‑wind alerts.

Residents in affected areas are advised to follow official updates, avoid low‑lying valleys during heavy rain, and take care when driving in reduced visibility.

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