Severe Weather Hits Makkah and Jeddah: Tornadoes, Flooding, and Emergency Responses

Severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and tornado activity, have led to significant flooding in Makkah and Jeddah today, January 6, 2025. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a red alert for both cities, warning residents of the potential dangers associated with these extreme weather events.

Weather Alerts and Forecast

The NCM has forecasted torrential downpours across Makkah and Jeddah from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM today. Accompanying these rains are strong winds, hail, and thunderstorms, which are expected to exacerbate flooding risks. The alert also includes warnings about reduced visibility and high waves along coastal areas. Specific regions within the Makkah province, such as Bahra, Al-Jumum, Rabigh, Kholais, and Al-Kamel, are particularly vulnerable to severe weather impacts[2][7].

Impact on Infrastructure and Communities

The heavy rains have already caused significant disruptions in both cities. In Makkah, reports indicate that roads have become waterlogged, leading to traffic delays and challenging conditions for commuters. Flooding has also affected public transportation services, with some routes being temporarily suspended due to safety concerns.

In Jeddah, the situation is similarly dire. The Crisis and Disaster Management Center has urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas and has mobilized emergency services to assist those affected by the severe weather. Local authorities have established emergency shelters for displaced individuals and are coordinating rescue operations for those trapped by rising waters.

Tornado Activity

In addition to flooding, a tornado was reported in the nearby Rabigh Governorate. This tornado is noted as one of the strongest recorded in the region, adding urgency to the emergency response efforts. The General Directorate of Civil Defense has emphasized the importance of public safety during this time, advising residents to remain indoors and avoid areas prone to flooding or tornado activity[2][6].

Emergency Response Measures

Authorities are actively responding to the crisis with several measures:

• Rescue Operations: Emergency services are conducting rescue operations for individuals stranded by floodwaters.
• Public Safety Announcements: Local officials have been disseminating information through social media platforms and local news outlets regarding safety precautions.
• Emergency Shelters: Temporary shelters have been set up for those displaced by flooding.

Public Safety Recommendations

Residents are advised to take the following precautions:

• Avoid Low-Lying Areas: Stay away from valleys and areas known for flooding.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates for real-time information on conditions.
• Emergency Preparedness: Prepare emergency kits with essential supplies in case of power outages or evacuation orders.
• Travel Caution: If travel is necessary, exercise extreme caution due to hazardous road conditions.

Conclusion

The severe weather impacting Makkah and Jeddah poses significant risks to public safety and infrastructure. As authorities work diligently to manage the situation, residents are urged to heed warnings and take necessary precautions. The community’s resilience will be crucial as they navigate these challenging circumstances together.

Citations:
[1] https://www.easeweather.com/asia/saudi-arabia/mecca-region/jeddah/january
[2] https://www.saudigazette.com.sa/article/648379/SAUDI-ARABIA/Red-alert-issued-in-Jeddah-as-NMC-forecasts-heavy-rain-on-Monday
[3] https://www.weatherandradar.in/weather-news/jazan-and-mecca-flooded-severe-weather-hit-saudi-arabia–cfcb2dc4-1832-49fe-8b9b-63027a6f6d6c
[4] https://dailythedestination.com/saudi-arabia-to-experience-extreme-cold-weather-and-snowfall-in-northern-regions/
[5] https://www.aqi.in/weather/in/saudi-arabia/makkah-al-mukarramah/jeddah
[6] https://en.akhbrna.ae/news/p/saudi-arabia-issues-red-alert
[7] https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/saudi/video-heavy-rains-thunderstorms-and-hail-hit-saudi-arabia-red-alert-issued-1.500011315
[8] https://uk.news.yahoo.com/severe-storms-delay-flights-saudi-114155375.html