Stormy weather hits Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coast

Several regions told to expect rain and thunderstorms as cold air mass enters northern Red Sea

The Saudi city of Jeddah received was among parts of Saudi Arabai that received rainfall on November 26, 2020 as a result of a cold air front in the northern Red Sea. AFP

Heavy rainfall hit Jeddah and Makkah on Friday, with weather warnings issued for regions throughout Saudi Arabia until Friday by Saudi Arabia’s civil defense.

The meteorology department forecast moderate to heavy downpours, thunderstorms and brisk winds in Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Makkah, Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Riyadh and Northern Borders regions.

The civil defence advised people to stay away from areas of possible flash flooding and to follow safety warnings.

Authorities at Jeddah port ordered the suspension of maritime traffic because of high waves and winds, although no casualties were reported in the city.

"People have been going to the corniche, driving by to enjoy the weather," Salman Rashid, a Jeddah resident, told The National.

“You can see Jeddah municipality are doing their best to drain water pools on the Malek road and other parts of the city, to maintain traffic flow and avoid accidents,” said Farah Albasid, another resident.

The meteorology department said the rainfall in Jeddah was the result of a high-pressure cold air mass approaching the north of the Red Sea.