Saudi Arabia is currently facing devastating floods that have disrupted daily life in numerous regions, including the capital Riyadh and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported that intense rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and hailstorms, inundated vast areas of Jeddah and its surrounding localities on Monday, exacerbating the ongoing crisis.
Data from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture indicates that the highest rainfall of 49.2 mm was recorded in Al-Shafiya, Badr Province, followed by 38 mm in Al-Basatin, Jeddah. In Medina, the central Haram area near the Prophet’s Mosque recorded 36.1 mm of rainfall, while the vicinity of Quba Mosque experienced 28.4 mm. The eastern regions of Saudi Arabia have also been severely affected, with extensive flooding reported. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has issued red alerts for Mecca, Medina, Riyadh, and parts of the southwestern Asir and Jazan provinces, urging residents to strictly adhere to safety guidelines to avoid flood-related hazards.
Authorities, including the Disaster Management Authority and the Saudi Red Crescent, have announced that comprehensive rescue operations are ready to assist individuals stranded by floodwaters. Residents have been cautioned to avoid low-lying areas and flood-prone zones. Social media is awash with images and videos illustrating the gravity of the disaster, showing vehicles swept away by powerful currents and water submerging the ground floors of numerous buildings.
The NCM has warned that rainfall persists in several regions, raising fears that the situation could deteriorate further. The government has called on citizens to exercise extreme caution, follow official instructions, and prioritize safety during this period of uncertainty.