Rain and Flash Flood Safety in Makkah: What Residents Should Do This Week

Thunderstorms are forecast over much of the Kingdom through Wednesday (14 October 2026), so rain and flash flood safety in Makkah matters this week. This guide sums up what the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) and the General Directorate of Civil Defense have said, with practical steps for Makkah households.

What the forecast says

In a Saudi Press Agency report carried on 10 October, the NCM said the Makkah Region would see moderate to heavy rain that could cause flash floods, with hail and downdraft winds that raise dust and sand. It named Makkah city, Al-Jumum, Al-Kamil, Bahrah, Taif, and other governorates, with lighter rain elsewhere in the region (Saudi Gazette; GDN, from SPA). The NCM’s report for Sunday 11 October again listed Makkah among regions expecting moderate to heavy thunderstorms (Ajel).

Check the latest alerts on the NCM website before you go out, because warnings are updated through the day.

What Civil Defense asks

The General Directorate of Civil Defense asked everyone to:

• stay alert and remain in safe places;
• keep away from valleys and places where floodwater collects;
• never swim in floodwater;
• follow instructions issued through the media and official social accounts.

Practical steps for Makkah families

• Plan Haram trips around alerts. If an alert is active, travel earlier or later. Our Makkah buses guide and Haramain train guide help when you would rather not drive.
• Avoid wadis and underpasses. Makkah is surrounded by hills and valleys. Do not drive through moving water.
• Keep children indoors during storms and away from water channels.
• Charge phones and keep emergency numbers handy. See our emergency numbers and hospitals guide.
• Check balconies and roofs. Bring in loose items before strong winds.

The bigger picture this season

The NCM’s seasonal outlook expects above-average rain across most regions in October and November (Saudi Gazette), so these habits will be useful beyond this week.

FAQ

Until when are storms expected?

Civil Defense said thunderstorms are expected across most regions through Wednesday. Check the NCM for updates.

Is it safe to drive to the Haram during rain?

Follow the active alerts. Avoid valleys and flooded roads, and consider public transport.

Where do I get official alerts?

From the National Center for Meteorology and Civil Defense official channels.