Life in Al-Riyadh

Natural Disasters and Safety in Riyadh

Riyadh experiences several weather phenomena that may affect daily life, including heavy rainfall, water accumulation, sandstorms, dust, and strong winds. The relevant authorities work to strengthen preparedness and response and monitor weather conditions to reduce their impact and enhance residents’ safety.

Emergency Preparedness

Residents can follow official alerts issued by the relevant authorities and comply with announced instructions during severe weather or emergencies. Key safety measures during rainfall include staying away from valleys and accumulated water, never attempting to cross floodwaters, avoiding low-lying areas, and limiting unnecessary travel during severe weather. (Saudi Civil Defense)

What to Do During Severe Weather

During Rainfall and Flash Floods:

• Stay away from valleys, flood channels, and accumulated water.

• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads.

• Follow official alerts and avoid affected areas.

• Contact the relevant authorities if there is a threat to safety.

During Sandstorms and Dust:

• Check weather alerts before going outside.

• Avoid travel when visibility is poor.

• Close windows and doors when dust intensifies.

• Follow the relevant authorities’ guidance until conditions improve.

Real-Time Updates and Alerts

For updated information during severe weather, residents can follow warnings issued by the National Center for Meteorology and the National Early Warning Platform, which provides emergency messages and alerts. Riyadh Municipality also monitors rainfall conditions in the field, increases the readiness of teams and equipment, and receives reports around the clock during significant weather events.

Preparedness and Response in Riyadh

Riyadh Municipality strengthens the city’s preparedness by monitoring the most affected locations, preparing teams and vehicles, maintaining stormwater drainage networks, addressing water accumulation, and responding to reports. Infrastructure development includes stormwater drainage networks in several neighborhoods to reduce the impact of rainfall and enhance safety. (Riyadh Municipality)

National Early Warning Platform

The National Early Warning Platform is an advanced electronic system developed by the General Directorate of Civil Defense in accordance with the highest international standards. It is designed to send warning messages in emergency situations via the cellular broadcast service. These messages are transmitted with a distinctive tone to mobile phones connected to telecommunications networks, alerting residents and guiding them on the necessary measures to ensure their safety and protection.For more information, you can visit the following link.

Warning Message Levels:

Subscription to Weather Alerts

Subscribing to weather alerts helps users stay informed about weather developments, climate changes, storms, as well as air quality and pollution levels. These alerts aim to protect individuals from potential risks, such as:

• Severe weather conditions

• Storms

• Air quality and pollution

• Lightning

To subscribe, users can join the National Center for Meteorology platform for real-time updates.

Subscription to Natural Disaster and Emergency Alerts

This service provides immediate notifications about natural disasters and various emergencies, enabling individuals to take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property. These alerts include:

• Environmental disasters

• Radiological emergencies

• Climate changes

• Hostile and sabotage attacks

• Wars

• Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions

• Hurricanes and wildfires

• Flood disasters

• Rescue operations and emergency services

• Fire hazards and air raids

The National Early Warning Platform offers these services to enhance public safety and security by delivering timely and accurate notifications.