· ·

At least 14 killed in Saudi Arabia after unusually intense storms cause major flash floods

saudi-arabia-floods-october-2018

Heavy rain falling over Saudi Arabia over the past two weeks have caused widespread flash flooding and left at least 14 people dead. Up to 300 people had to be rescued. This year has seen some of the most extreme weather conditions in decades, authorities said October 30, 2018.

At least 14 people were killed, they said, adding that the Command and Guidance Center in Riyadh received 423 requests for help since October 19 as the heavy rain affected 13 areas of the Kingdom, the Arab News reports.

Civil Defense forces rescued 299 stranded people, including 115 in Makkah. Most of those needing help were trapped in their vehicles, of which 88 people were evacuated and 282 cars were towed.

In Abha city, the capital city of Aseer Province near the Red Sea, flash floods damaged roads and submerged cars, sending people on social media into a frenzy. Many of the blamed the city's bad infrastructure.

Similar events took place in other parts of the country, unused to such severe weather conditions.

Faisal Al-Subaie, undersecretary of the Ministry of Water, said Saudi Arabia usually witnesses thunderstorms ranging between medium and heavy during this time of the year, but this year the storms have been particularly severe.

Featured image credit: Abdulla93889836

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

2 Comments

  1. المقطع الأخير لسيارة الدفاع المدني حصل في سلطنة عمان وليس في السعودية .
    وأنا متأكد من ذلك وأنا معجب بصدق موقعكم ولا أرضى أن يخدعكم أحد

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *