New Delhi: Saudi Arabia authorities have warned people of severe weather conditions in the Gulf nation after torrential rains and floods swept Riyadh, Najran, Makkah, Eastern Province and other parts of the emirate on Sunday. Authorities have ordered the schools and universities in the affected regions as a precautionary measure.

Videos of floods in capital Riyadh went viral on social media platforms. While some regions received rains others were marred by dust storms.

Rare scenes in Al-Hariq, south of Riyadh in Saudi Arabia yesterday.

Footage shows a hail-filled flash flood surging through Wadi Khadakhidh, with a huge amount of hail pouring through. pic.twitter.com/nwTYSpttNf

— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) April 12, 2026

Weather agency predicts more rain

According to the National Centre for Meteorology, rains are likely to continue in Riyadh. The weather department has issued storm warnings, forecasting thunderstorms, hail and heavy rainfall in regions such as Jazan, Asir and Al-Baha. Moderate to heavy rain is also expected in Najran, Makkah, Riyadh, the Northern Borders region and the Eastern Province. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority said that a total of 143 ambulances and 25 rapid response teams have been allocated for rescue and relief operations.

Meteorologists have also warned of strong winds across central and northern regions, with gusts expected to exceed 45 kmph over the Arabian Gulf and reach up to 60 kmph in parts of the Red Sea.

Massive flooding caused by intense rainfall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/OfjWoaSOUl

— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) April 12, 2026

Educational institutions closed in several regions

In the Eastern Province, including Al-Ahsa, education authorities shut schools on Sunday and have extended closures into Monday based on weather forecasts. Educational institutions in the southwestern Asir region were also closed, while several universities either suspended classes or shifted to online mode. Taif University moved classes online in some colleges, and King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences declared a holiday for its Al-Ahsa campus.

Authorities have urged residents to follow safety advisories, avoid flood-prone areas and ensure access for emergency services. People can contact emergency services via the 997 hotline or through mobile applications such as Asafny, Tawakkalna and Absher.