Saudi Arabia Sees Above-Average Rainfall, Abha Records Highest Increase

The National Center for Meteorology has released a detailed statistical report on rainfall across Saudi Arabia for the first half of April 2026, revealing a significant increase in precipitation compared to the reference climate averages. This data, gathered from both manned and automatic weather stations, paints a picture of a wetter-than-usual period for much of the Kingdom. The overall average rainfall during this period reached 20.3 mm, a substantial rise from the normal average of 7.8 mm, indicating an excess of 12.5 mm across the nation.

“

The average rainfall across the Kingdom during this period reached 20.3 mm, compared to the normal average of 7.8 mm, recording an increase of 12.5 mm over the normal average.

While the report highlights a general increase, it also underscores the uneven distribution of rainfall. Out of the monitored stations, 11 recorded amounts exceeding the average, while another 11 fell within the normal range (±5 mm). However, 4 stations registered less than the expected rainfall, demonstrating the localized nature of weather patterns within the Kingdom. This variability is a key aspect of Saudi Arabia's climate, where microclimates can lead to significant differences in precipitation even within close proximity.

“

The highest increase above the average was recorded at the Abha station, amounting to (+139 mm).

Notably, the city of Abha emerged as the area with the most significant deviation from the norm, experiencing an increase of +139 mm above its average. Abha station recorded a total of 163 mm, marking it as the second-highest rainfall historically for this station. Khamis Mushait also saw considerable rainfall, with 59.3 mm. Even automatic stations in the region, like the one in Khamis Mushait (72.8 mm) and Al-Soudah in Abha (40.6 mm), confirm the heightened precipitation in the southwestern highlands. This surge in rainfall, while beneficial for water resources, also necessitates attention to potential impacts on local infrastructure and daily life in these areas.

“

Abha station recorded the highest rainfall amount of 163 mm, the second-highest historical rainfall amount for this station.