Heavy rain forecast for Riyadh and Diriyah prompts shift to remote learning on Thursday

Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued a warning of heavy rainfall affecting Riyadh and Diriyah starting at 5 a.m. on Thursday and continuing until 3 p.m.

According to the early weather alert, the forecast includes severe weather conditions such as strong winds, near-zero horizontal visibility, hail, flash flooding, and thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.

In response to the expected weather conditions and to ensure public safety, the Riyadh Education Department announced the suspension of in-person classes on Thursday, with schooling shifting to remote learning via the Madrasati platform and other approved educational systems.

The decision applies to all students and school staff, including teaching and administrative personnel, in Riyadh city and the governorates of Diriyah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Rumah, Dharmaa, Al-Kharj, Al-Hareeq, Ad-Dilam, Al-Muzahimiyah, Hawtat Bani Tamim, Ad-Dawadmi, Afif, Az-Zulfi, Al-Majmaah, Al-Ghat, and Shaqra.

Education authorities said the move was based on official reports from the National Center for Meteorology and reflects a precautionary approach aimed at safeguarding students and staff amid unstable weather conditions.