Heavy rain, hailstorm turn Saudi desert white in rare weather event

Unusually heavy rainfall and hailstorms swept across parts of Saudi Arabia, covering desert landscapes in a white blanket, authorities said on Saturday.

The extreme weather hit the northern regions of Tabuk and Hail, where dark clouds loomed over the skies before torrential downpours and hail turned parts of the arid land into a wintry scene. Temperatures dropped significantly as a result.

Saudi Arabia’s meteorological department has warned that unstable weather will persist until Tuesday, with varying intensities of rain expected across different cities.

Following the storm, residents reported a noticeable increase in cold temperatures, while local authorities urged caution due to slippery roads and low visibility in affected areas.

Previously, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defense had issued a weather warning, forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall across much of the country until Friday.

Affected regions include Makkah, Riyadh, Medina, Tabuk, Hail, Qassim, the Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al Jouf, Al Baha, and Asir, accoring to Gulf News.

The Civil Defense has urged residents to take necessary precautions, avoid flood-prone areas, and refrain from swimming in valleys. Authorities encourage the public to stay updated through official channels for the latest weather alerts and safety guidance.

In response to the weather conditions, the Makkah Education Department has announced the suspension of in-person classes for students across Makkah and the governorates of Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Bahra. Classes will be held remotely via the Madrasati platform.

Umm Al Qura University has also switched to remote learning on Tuesday, in line with the National Center of Meteorology’s forecast. This includes all university campuses, affiliated offices, and colleges in the Makkah region.