2024-05-02 19:26:36
Riyadh: After Dubai, now Saudi Arabia is struggling with floods due to heavy rains. The rain has affected the northern parts of Saudi Arabia the most. Following the warning from the Meteorological Department, many roads have been closed for traffic. Not only this, holidays have also been declared in schools due to floods. Severe flooding was seen in Al-Ula and Al-Madinah provinces on Monday. The video of heavy rain in Madina’s Masjid Al Nabawi is viral on social media. In the video, rain water can be seen falling rapidly inside the mosque.
Situation worsened due to flood in Saudi
Such situation in Saudi has happened a few days after the sudden floods in the neighboring United Arab Emirates and Oman. The rare occurrences this time of year are partly attributed to climate change. In November 2022, coastal areas of Saudi Arabia were hit by floods as a result of heavy rains, which severely affected the city of Jeddah. Two people also died in Jeddah due to that flood. The problem related to lack of drainage due to flooding after rains is frequently observed in Jeddah.
Saudi administration warned citizens
Many cities in the Gulf countries have been built without rain water drainage systems. This is because 20th century urban planners did not anticipate dramatic changes to the typically arid region of the Arabian Peninsula. According to Saudi media reports, officials are currently assessing the situation in the affected areas. The Civil Protection Directorate urged residents to exercise caution and avoid valleys and waterways. They are advising not to cross or enter these areas. He has advised drivers to be especially cautious on rural roads.
Heavy rain alert issued
The Saudi National Center of Meteorology (NCM) had already issued a red alert for the Al-Madinah region on Monday, predicting heavy rain and storms. The alert specifically covered Al-Ula from noon to 11 pm. The NCM has predicted heavy rainfall, strong winds, low visibility, hailstorm and possible floods during this period.