Red Flash-Flood Alerts Issued; Jeddah on Yellow Alert

Saudi weather authorities have issued red flash-flood alerts for several regions in late August 2026, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. The affected zones include parts of Maysan in the Makkah region, along with Al-Majaridah and Rijal Almaa in Asir, where the risk of flash floods is highest.

In Jeddah, conditions are less severe, with yellow alerts in effect for light rain and blowing dust. Forecasts point to rain, active winds, and reduced visibility from dust rather than the most extreme weather. Moderate to heavy thunderstorms are also expected across parts of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah, with potential flash floods, hail, and gusty winds.

Understanding the color-coded alerts

Saudi Arabia's early-warning system classifies rainfall and flood risk into three levels: yellow for light conditions, orange for moderate, and red for severe. A red alert signals the most dangerous weather, with possible zero visibility, hail, intense thunderstorms, and flash floods. Published intensity bands put light rain at roughly 1–4 mm moderate at 5–9 mm and heavy at 10–50 mm

Alerts are time-bound and updated frequently, with validity periods ranging from a few hours to about a day for specific cities and governorates. Warning maps show set start and end times — for example, from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. for yellow alerts covering Jeddah and nearby areas.

Residents in affected areas are advised to stay clear of valleys and low-lying spots prone to flooding, avoid unnecessary travel during peak alert hours, and follow updated warnings. These safety alerts are a free public service and carry no fees or government procedures — they are issued purely to protect life and property.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving