RIYADH — The General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged the public to exercise caution and stay in safe places, warning of thunderstorms across Saudi Arabia from Wednesday through Monday.Authorities advised residents to avoid flood-prone areas, valleys, refrain from swimming in them, and follow official safety instructions.Civil Defense said Makkah region will be affected by heavy rainfall that may lead to flash floods, hail and strong downdraft winds causing dust and reduced visibility, including Makkah, Al-Kamil, Al-Jumum, Khulais, Bahrah, Taif, Maysan, Adham, Al-Ardiyat, Turbah, Al-Muwaih, Al-Khurmah and Ranyah, while Jeddah and Rabigh are expected to see light to moderate rain.Riyadh region is also forecast to experience heavy rain in areas such as Wadi Al-Dawasir, Al-Sulayyil and Al-Aflaj, with light to moderate rainfall expected in Riyadh city and surrounding areas including Al-Dalam, Al-Muzahimiyah, Dharma, Marat, Shaqra, Al-Ghat, Al-Majmaah, Thadiq, Huraymila, Diriyah, Rumah, Afif, Al-Dawadmi, Al-Quwaiyah, Al-Rayn, Hotat Bani Tamim, Al-Hariq and Al-Kharj.Other regions including Tabuk, Al-Jouf, Northern Borders, Madinah, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan, Najran, Hail, Qassim and the Eastern Province are also expected to be affected by moderate to heavy rainfall, with risks of flash floods, hail and strong winds.