Makkah hailstorm alert: Heavy rain and strong winds forecast across Saudi Arabia | World News
The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued an urgent weather alert for the Makkah region, forecasting a significant shift from the typical dry heat to intense winter storms. As of February 4, 2026, meteorologists are tracking a weather system capable of producing moderate to heavy thunderstorms across the Holy Capital and its surrounding governorates.This unusual February surge is part of a broader atmospheric pattern bringing moisture to the western and northern parts of the Kingdom, turning dusty horizons into rain-soaked landscapes. Residents and pilgrims are already witnessing darker clouds gathering over the Grand Mosque, signaling a rare but powerful encounter with nature’s elements
Hail, and 60 km/h winds in Mecca
This is not a simple rain shower; the NCM has specifically warned of hail and “downdraft winds” that could reach speeds of up to 60 km/h. These winds are strong enough to kick up significant dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility to near-zero in open areas and on highways.
- Flash Flood Risks: The intensity of the rainfall, often exceeding 10mm per hour in some zones, creates a high risk for flash floods in valleys and low-lying urban areas.
- Hail Damage Warning: The potential for hail means residents should secure outdoor property and avoid parking vehicles in open, unprotected spaces.
- Coastal Impact: For those near the Red Sea stretches of the Makkah region, such as Jeddah and Rabigh, the storms are expected to cause rough sea conditions with waves potentially exceeding two meters.
Safety advisory
The General Directorate of Civil Defense and the Crisis and Disaster Management Center in Makkah have transitioned to full operational readiness. Authorities are urging the public to follow strict safety protocols during this period. The most critical instruction is to avoid crossing valleys or “wadis” that are prone to sudden torrents, as the speed of rushing water can be deceptive and deadly. Pilgrims are advised to exercise extreme caution while performing rituals, especially in open-air areas, and to follow the directions of security personnel on-site. Motorists are also being cautioned to stay off the roads during the peak of the storm to avoid waterlogged streets and hazardous wind gusts.
Weather across the kingdom
This storm system is not limited to Mecca. Forecasts show that regions across the Kingdom, including Riyadh, Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and more, are also expected to see varying degrees of thunderstorms, rain and hail during similar weather episodes in recent months.For instance, earlier weather alerts warned of widespread rain, dust storms and flash flooding affecting multiple provinces, with the NCM stressing the importance of staying informed and cautious in all affected areas.
What residents should expect?
In Mecca itself, the storm forecast may bring brief but intense rainfall, thunder and hail at times, with rapid changes in conditions possible throughout the day. While short rain showers are typical for the region’s transitional seasons, heavier storms with hail remain notable events requiring attention to official advice.Mecca’s intersections, narrow streets and urban drainage systems may cope with lighter rainfall without major disruption, but sustained downpours can still lead to localized flooding and slippery surfaces.
