Thunderstorms Through Wednesday: What Ha’il and Other Regions Can Expect
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Civil Defense says thunderstorms through Wednesday (14 October 2026) are expected across most regions, and it has asked people to stay cautious (Saudi Gazette). Here is what the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) forecasts by region, with a closer look at Ha’il.
If you live in Makkah, see the rain and flash-flood safety guide for Makkah residents.
Ha’il: alerts this week
On 8 October the NCM issued an alert for the Ha’il region: moderate rain with thunderstorms, hail, and active winds that could cut visibility to almost zero, covering several governorates, open areas, and highways (Tfaseel, from SPA). Its daily report for Sunday 11 October expects light to moderate rain over parts of Ha’il (Ajel).
If you plan a drive to Jubbah, Aja, or Faid this week, check the NCM before leaving. Low visibility in open desert is the main hazard. Our one-day Ha’il itinerary and guide to Ha’il’s roads and sights help you plan around the weather.
Other regions
According to the NCM forecast carried by SPA on 10 October (GDN) and its Sunday report:
- Moderate to heavy rain, possible flash floods and hail: Makkah Region, Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders.
- Light to moderate rain: Madinah, Ha’il, and Najran, with Sunday’s report also listing Madinah among regions with heavier storms.
- Fog: possible overnight and early morning on the coasts of the Eastern Province, Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk.
- Red Sea: waves of half a metre to 1.5 metres, over two metres during storms.
What Civil Defense asks
- Stay in safe places and stay alert.
- Keep away from valleys and places where floodwater collects.
- Do not swim in floodwater.
- Follow official instructions in the media and on official social accounts.
For a household checklist, see our winter weather preparation guide. The NCM’s seasonal outlook also expects above-average rain in October and November (Saudi Gazette).
FAQ
Is Ha’il expecting heavy rain?
Sunday’s NCM report lists light to moderate rain over parts of Ha’il. An earlier alert on 8 October covered thunderstorms and hail.
Where can I check live alerts?
On the National Center for Meteorology website and its official accounts.
How long will the storms last?
Civil Defense said storms are expected across most regions through Wednesday.
