Jazan sees heavy rainfall and thunderstorms as expert explains causes

In a remarkable display of nature’s power and beauty, Jazan continues to dominate Saudi Arabia’s rainfall scene, with persistent heavy downpours, flowing valleys and streams, and rising water levels in several areas. Thunderstorms have created captivating natural vistas, captured by photographers and storm chasers, as attention turns to what the rest of October and November may bring for the region’s weather.

Commenting on the reasons behind these weather phenomena, Ali Mashhoor, a member of the Saudi Weather and Climate Society, told Ajel that a combination of climatic and geographic factors make Jazan especially prone to thundercloud formation and rainfall. He explained that the region benefits from strong upward thermal currents, abundant atmospheric moisture, orographic lifting, and converging winds. Together, these elements drive air upwards and help form towering local clouds, which can be accompanied by intense lightning.

Mashhoor noted that autumn brings weather conditions that increase the likelihood of rain in Jazan, especially as warm, moisture-laden air moves in from the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, while upper-level moisture arrives from the Arabian Sea. When combined with other favorable conditions, this creates an ideal environment for raincloud development.

He added that thermal updrafts and orographic lifting play a key role in pushing warm air higher, while converging winds further enhance these upward currents. These factors, combined with available moisture, boost the chances of thundercloud formation and activity, explaining the heavy rainfall and frequent lightning Jazan is experiencing at this time of year.

Mashhoor emphasized that the heavy rains seen in October are part of the region’s typical climatic cycles. He noted that several governorates are affected, with the Tihama lowlands among the most impacted areas, depending on cloud distribution, rainfall intensity, and local terrain.

According to Mashhoor and the latest updates from the National Center for Meteorology, the likelihood of rain is expected to increase across several Jazan governorates through the rest of October and into November, making it important for residents to stay updated on weather developments, especially with the potential for renewed thunderstorms and heavy downpours in some locations.

Jazan has recorded notable rainfall in recent days, with scattered showers on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, and a total of 33.7 mm recorded on Wednesday, October 7, according to previous reports from the National Center for Meteorology. The region topped the country in rainfall amounts on that day.

As the wet weather continues, water has flowed through valleys and streams, while mountain peaks have been shrouded in fog and thick clouds. Photographs highlight Jazan’s diverse geography, from mountain summits to agricultural plains and coastal areas, all brought to life by the abundant rain and stunning natural scenery.

The significance of this rainfall goes beyond its visual appeal, as it helps replenish water resources, renews the flow in valleys, and boosts vegetation and natural pastures. Infiltrating rainwater may also help recharge groundwater reserves, depending on soil and rock types and the volume of water available.

Despite the optimism for a productive rainy season, the risks associated with thunderstorms remain, particularly flash floods, downdrafts, and lightning. A previous report recorded downdraft wind speeds of 130 kilometers per hour, a figure that requires verification of its location and timing before generalizing it to the region’s overall weather situation.

Authorities stress the importance of following instructions from the National Center for Meteorology and Civil Defense, avoiding valleys, flood channels, and water accumulations, and not attempting to cross flooded roads to protect lives and property.

Amid the heavy rain, powerful thunderclouds, and breathtaking natural scenes, Jazan continues to experience striking autumn weather. As attention turns to the coming weeks, hopes are high for more beneficial rains to support water resources and revive the land, with safety and adherence to official warnings remaining as important as the beauty of the rainy landscape.