Mecca: Considered the holiest city in Islam, is grappling with severe floods caused by heavy rainfall. The torrential downpour has not only affected Mecca but also nearby regions like Medina and Jeddah. Streets are submerged, cars are being swept away, buses are stranded, and people are crying for help. Videos showing human chains rescuing children and the elderly have gone viral, showcasing acts of courage and humanity.
In the Al-Awali area of Mecca, residents formed a human chain to safely evacuate children. One video shows a man risking his life to save a delivery boy who was swept away by the flood. Social media is flooded with such inspiring stories of people helping each other in this crisis.
Red Alert Issued by Meteorological Department
Saudi Arabia’s National Meteorological Center (NMC) has issued a red alert for Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah. Due to the heavy rains, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah has been shut down, and travelers have been advised to contact their airlines. Schools have switched to online classes, and public spaces have been completely closed.
Memories of 2009 Tragedy Resurface
Jeddah has faced severe floods before, most notably in 2009, when over 100 lives were lost. This time, the situation seems eerily similar. The Jeddah Municipality has activated 11 municipal teams and 15 emergency centers to manage waterlogging. While affluent areas in Mecca offer safer shelters, the underprivileged are left to fend for themselves in the flooded streets, highlighting the glaring inequality during such disasters.
The NMC has predicted heavy rains and storms to persist through next week, urging residents to stay cautious.