Saudi authorities call for caution as thunderstorms, hail expected until Tuesday

RIYADH: Saudi authorities have called for caution after issuing a warning of thunderstorms and flooding in most regions of the Kingdom until Tuesday, state news agency SPA reported on Thursday.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense called for people to take shelter away from areas prone to flooding and to not swim in these areas.

The statement added that people should follow local media for further announcements, as well as on social networking sites.

The Makkah region will be affected by moderate to heavy downpours that may lead to torrential rain, hail, and strong winds that will kick up dust.

Areas impacted will likely be Makkah, Jeddah, Taif, Al-Jamoum, Al-Kamil, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Maysan, Al-Khurmah, Tarbah, Raniyah, Al-Muwayh, Bahrah, Rabigh, Khulais, Al-Laith, and Al-Qunfudhah.

The Riyadh region is also expected to be affected, across the capital, Al-Majmaah, Rumah, Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Thadiq, Shaqra, Murat, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Kharj, Al-Muzahimiyah, Al-Hariq, Al-Quwayiyah, Afif, and Al-Aflaj, as well as the regions of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Madinah, Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, and Al-Qassim.