The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is witnessing unprecedented torrential rains as well as severe flooding that swept across streets and neighborhoods in its several cities with the weather stress expected to continue for days.
The National Center for Meteorology issued warnings of varying levels across the kingdom on Tuesday, reported Anatolia.
The warnings included the high red alert in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina in western Saudi Arabia, as well as in areas of the eastern region.
At a less orange severity level, the capital Riyadh, central Saudi Arabia and the southwestern provinces of Aseer and Jazan were warned, but people were still urged to remain vigilant amid expected rainfall.
In response to the warnings of heavy rain, the kingdom’s rescue authorities, including the Red Crescent, increased their preparedness.
The Red Crescent confirmed the full operational readiness of its rescue teams to ensure uninterrupted ambulance service and rapid response, according to Saudi Press Agency.
In addition, citizens were also warned by the Saudi authorities to remain cautious and follow safety guidelines, especially in the areas warned by the high-level alerts.
People were urged by civil defense to stay away from valleys, low-lying areas and areas where rainwater could collect.
The extent of the flooding, with rising water levels and sweeping cars off the roads, as well as buildings submerged due to the heavy downpours and thunderstorms, was documented on social media.
