Saudi Arabia issues red alert for thunderstorms and strong winds in Makkah and Madinah

Saudi Arabia has issued a red alert for severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential flash floods, across several regions of the country.

The National Meteorology Center (NCM) announced the red alert for Wednesday, August 26, 2026, primarily affecting parts of Makkah and Asir. Specific areas under the red alert include Maysan in the Makkah region and Al-Majaridah, Rijal Almaa, and surrounding areas in Asir.

In addition to the red alert, orange alerts have been issued for moderate rain in parts of Jazan and for fog in Abha and its surroundings in Asir. Yellow alerts are in place for light rain in Al-Darb (Jazan), Al-Birk (Asir), and the Holy Capital region of Makkah.

The NCM's daily forecast indicates that moderate to heavy thunderstorms, potentially leading to flash floods and accompanied by hail and strong winds, are expected in Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Makkah, and Madinah. Meanwhile, regarding temperatures, Dammam is forecast to reach a high of 46 degrees Celsius, with Riyadh, Madinah, and Buraidah expected to hit 45 degrees Celsius.