NCM forecasts widespread rain across Saudi Arabia through end of Ramadan

2026-03-08 - 14:53

RIYADH — National Center for Meteorology has forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across large parts of Saudi Arabia through the end of Ramadan on March 18.The forecast, based on outputs from the Saudi numerical weather model, shows rainfall systems moving across multiple regions of the Kingdom over the coming days.According to the forecast, rain will begin Sunday around Maghreb with scattered showers across Asir Region, Al-Baha Region, southern parts of Makkah Region, western areas of Najran Region and eastern parts of Jazan Region.Showers are also expected across parts of Riyadh Region, including the capital Riyadh, while northern areas of the Eastern Province may see scattered rainfall.By early Monday morning, rainfall is expected to concentrate mainly over Riyadh Region, particularly in Riyadh city and surrounding areas including Wadi Al-Dawasir.Rainfall is forecast to ease later Monday before returning in the afternoon across southeastern areas including Najran, Asir, Jazan and Al-Baha. Parts of the Eastern Province, including Dammam and Al-Ahsa, may also experience showers.The weather system is expected to continue shifting across the Kingdom throughout the week, bringing periods of rain to several regions including Makkah, Riyadh, Asir, Jazan, Najran and the Eastern Province.Heavier rainfall is forecast midweek across northern parts of Riyadh Region and southern areas of Al-Qassim Region, with additional showers expected in parts of the Eastern Province and northern regions including Northern Borders Region around Arar.Rainfall is also expected in coastal areas between Jeddah and Taif, while light showers may extend to northern regions including Tabuk, Turaif and Al-Qurayyat.Toward the final days of Ramadan, rainfall is expected to move toward northern regions including Al-Qassim and parts of Madinah Region, covering areas such as AlUla and Al-Wajh.According to the NCM forecast, rainfall will gradually weaken by the morning of March 18, remaining mainly in eastern parts of Riyadh Region and the Eastern Province before weather conditions stabilize across the Kingdom.