RIYADH: Authorities in Saudi Arabia called for caution against thunderstorms in most regions of the Kingdom, starting from Sunday until Thursday, the state-run SPA news agency reported on Saturday. The General Directorate of Civil Defense said that the Makkah region will be affected by medium to heavy rains that may lead to torrential rains, hail and brisk winds that will stir up dust, including Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Khurmah, Al-Ardiyat, Turbah, Rani, and Al-Muwiyah. The regions of Asir, Al-Baha, Jazan and Najran will also be affected. Moderate rains and downward winds with active speeds that will raise dust are expected in the Riyadh region, including the capital, Diriyah, Al-Majma’ah, Al-Zulfi, Al-Ghat, Rimah, Thadiq, Shaqra, Afif, Al-Dawadmi,Al-Quwaiyah, Al-Muzahimiyah, Dhurma, Huraymila, Al-Aflaj, Wadi Al-Dawasir, Al-Sulail, Al-Kharj, Hotat Bani Tamim, Al-Hariq, Al-Bajadia and Al-Dalam. The Eastern Province and Qassim regions will also be affected with similar weather conditions, the authority warned. Light to moderate thunderstorms and active downward winds, causing dust are expected in the regions of Tabuk, Al-Jawf, the Northern Borders, Madinah and Hail, it added. The General Directorate of Civil Defense stressed the need to stay in safe places during the rains and to stay away from water swamps, valleys and areas where torrents gather. It also warned against swimming in them, as they are unsuitable and dangerous, and to adhere to the instructions announced through the various media and social networking sites.