Unprecedented Torrential Rains and Severe Floods Hit Makkah and Madinah
In early January 2025, Saudi Arabia’s holy cities of Makkah and Madinah experienced unprecedented torrential rains, leading to severe flooding that disrupted daily life and posed significant challenges to residents and pilgrims.
Timeline of the Rainfall
The heavy rains began on January 5, 2025, and continued through January 7, 2025, with the most intense downpours occurring on January 6.
The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued high-level red alerts for Makkah and Madinah, warning of heavy rains, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
Extent of the Flooding
The torrential rains resulted in submerged streets, stranded vehicles, and disrupted transportation networks.
In Makkah, neighborhoods such as Al-Kakiyyah recorded significant rainfall, while in Madinah, areas like Al-Shafiyah in Badr governorate experienced rainfall reaching 49.2 millimeters.
Emergency Response and Public Safety Measures
In response to the severe weather, the Saudi Red Crescent Authority‘s Makkah branch heightened its readiness, ensuring that command-and-control centers, ambulance stations, rapid response teams, and volunteer units were fully operational.
Authorities urged the public to exercise caution, avoid flood-prone areas, and adhere to safety guidelines. The Civil Defense service specifically advised residents to stay away from valleys, lowland areas, and regions where rainwater could accumulate.
Emergency Contact Information
For immediate assistance during such emergencies, residents and visitors in Saudi Arabia can reach out to the following emergency services:
- Unified Emergency Number: 911
- Civil Defense: 998
- Ambulance Services: 997
- Police: 999
- Traffic Accidents: 993
- Roads Security: 996
- Coastguard: 994
- Natural Disasters: 966
- Electricity Emergency: 933
Precautionary Measures and Safety Tips
Residents and visitors of Saudi Arabia are advised to:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the National Center for Meteorology and heed advisories from local authorities.
- Avoid Flooded Areas: Refrain from driving or walking through flooded streets to prevent accidents and ensure personal safety.
- Prepare Emergency Kits: Keep essential items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, and medications readily available.
- Secure Property: Ensure that homes and belongings are safeguarded against potential water damage.
Conclusion on Floods Hit Makkah and Madinah
The recent heavy rains and subsequent flooding in Makkah and Madinah underscore the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety protocols during extreme weather events. By staying informed and following official guidelines, residents and visitors can navigate these challenges more effectively and ensure their safety.
For the latest weather updates and advisories, visit the National Center for Meteorology’s official website:
