New Delhi: Several cities in Saudi Arabia are grappling with severe floods after torrential rains, hailstorms, and thunderstorms lashed the country. The Saudi National Meteorological Centre (NMC) has issued red alerts for Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah, warning of continued rainfall throughout the week. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the heavy rains have caused severe flooding in Mecca and nearby cities, including Jeddah.
Videos shared on social media platforms show the devastation caused by the floods, with people trapped in various localities. The NMC has urged residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.
SEVERE FLOODS HIT Mecca, Saudi Arabia!
Torrential rainfall causes widespread flooding, disrupting pilgrimages.
Emergency services respond, evacuating stranded residents.
Roads closed, flights delayed.
Stay safe, follow updates! #MeccaFloods #SaudiArabia #FloodAlert pic.twitter.com/WyOBRSIYBn
— Facts Prime (@factsprime35) January 7, 2025
Normal life disrupted across multiple cities
The flooding has disrupted daily life in multiple cities. Jeddah saw waterlogged streets, stranded vehicles, and disrupted air travel. King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah advised travellers to contact airlines for flight updates.
NMC spokesperson Hussein Al Qahtani reported an extreme waterspout in Rabigh on Monday, the strongest ever recorded in the region. This isn’t the first time Saudi Arabia has faced such devastation. In 2009, over 100 people died in Jeddah due to catastrophic flooding. Earlier this year, record-breaking rainfall across Gulf states claimed lives in Oman and the UAE.
Residents advised to stay indoors
The Jeddah municipality has mobilised 11 municipalities and 15 support centres to address waterlogged areas. Public spaces have been closed, and schools in Riyadh and the Eastern Province have shifted online.
The situation in Mecca and Medina saw global discussion, as these cities are major pilgrimage sites for Muslims. Videos from the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina show water flooding the mosque’s interior. Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and prioritise safety.
