RIYADH: High temperatures and humidity in the coastal areas are predicted during the next few days, according to the forecast issued by the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment (PME).

The PME also forecast chances for rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in areas such as Jazan, Asir, Najran and Baha. It is anticipated that such rains could extend to the heights of the regions of Makkah and Madinah and also affect coastal areas.

Active surface winds are expected to raise dust to limit visibility in the eastern region, Riyadh and Al-Qassim.

The directorate of Civil Defense in the Asir region has already warned of the risks associated with current rain and floods in many provinces of the region.

The official spokesman of the Civil Defense in the Asir region, Col. Mohammed bin Abdul Rahim Al-Asimi, said the announcement is being made following information from the General Presidency of Meteorology and Environment (PME) that weather fluctuations will continue in the region.

Al-Asimi called on all citizens, residents and visitors to the region to take caution and keep away from the valleys and water pools during this period, as the region is witnessing weather fluctuations and still there is an opportunity for more rainfall.

He stressed the importance of adhering to civil defense’s instructions, and that families should impose control over children and refrain from entering into adventures like some people do during rainfall.

Meanwhile, due to the rising temperatures during this season in the Kingdom, the government has enforced the ministerial decree which prohibits laborers from working between noon and 3 p.m. due to the scorching sun during the period from Shaban 28 (June 15), to the beginning of Dhul Hijjah (Sept. 14), spanning 93 days.

The government decision also states that daily working hours must not exceed eight hours on the morning or night shifts, and that overtime should be paid to those working additional hours in a 24-hour period.

Laborers must not work at all during the banned hours if they usually work in the open, it added.

Companies which violate the midday summer break will face penalties. Offenders will have the classification of their firms downgraded by the ministry or face permanent closure, and will be fined between SR3,000 and SR10,000 per case.

Members of the public have been requested to report any such violations by companies in their respective regions to the toll-free number 9911.