Severe torrential rains have wreaked havoc across Saudi Arabia, particularly in Mecca, Jeddah, and other regions. The downpours swept cars away in flash floods. Also, clogged water forced residents to swim through the waters to reach safety.The heavy rains have caused widespread disruption, with streets submerged and daily life brought to a standstill. Authorities are working to manage the crisis, but the scale of the Mecca floods has left many in urgent need of assistance.
Flash Floods And Swimming To Safety In Mecca
Imagine trying to get from point A to point B, only to find yourself swimming through chest-high water to escape the floodwaters. That’s the harsh reality many in Mecca and Jeddah are facing right now.
While some are managing to float to safety, others are getting stuck in the rising waters, with cars swept away by the unrelenting floods. This chaos has been caught on film, with several shocking videos making their rounds on social media.
A Red Alert Across The Kingdom
In response to the unprecedented rainfall, Saudi Arabia’s Meteorological Department has issued a red alert across key areas including Mecca, Madinah, and Jeddah.
It’s not the first time the port city of Jeddah has been hit with severe floods, after the tragic events of 2009, when flash floods claimed over 100 lives, residents are all too familiar with the devastating consequences. This time, the rains came just months after record-breaking rainfall across the Gulf in April 2024.
Struggling Infrastructure Meets Record Rainfall
Unfortunately, many cities across Saudi Arabia, including Mecca and Jeddah, are not familiar with handling these massive downpours. With underdeveloped drainage and sewage systems, urban planners have struggled to predict the frequency and intensity of such rainfall.
The National Meteorological Centre (NMC) warned that thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rainfall to continue throughout the week. So, it’s best to keep your umbrellas handy and your phone charged for any emergency updates.
Authorities Spring Into Action
Authorities have quickly mobilised to respond to the flooding. The Jeddah municipality has activated 11 local municipalities and 15 support centres to navigate through the waterlogged streets, helping residents find their way to safety.
Even King Abdulaziz International Airport has advised travellers to get in touch with airlines for flight updates, as the storm impacts travel plans.
A Wake-Up Call For Urban Planning
The catastrophic floods in Saudi Arabia serve as a stark reminder for better urban infrastructure. While authorities are doing their best to manage the crisis, the situation highlights the urgency for improved drainage systems. This will lead to coping with these increasingly frequent and intense downpours. For now, residents and visitors alike must brace for more wet days ahead. Stay safe, stay informed, and, most importantly, stay dry!
Cover Image Courtesy: Shubhamsingh038, ps_trump/X