Madinah, Saudi Arabia, is facing chaos due to intense rainstorms and flash floods, transforming streets into rivers.
The storms, which started on Monday, are set to persist throughout the day with accompanying hail and dust-laden winds, significantly reducing visibility.
Social media footage shows the severity of the conditions, with heavy rain and gusty winds disrupting the region.
The National Meteorological Center (NMC) predicts moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and dust storms to continue until Wednesday, January 8.
Several areas have declared a red alert, including Jeddah, anticipating torrential rains and flash floods until Wednesday.
Pilgrims and visitors were treated to a serene sight around Masjid-e-Nabawi after heavy rainfall in the holy city of Madinah#NewsPMC #Pilgrims #MasjideNabawi #Rainfall #Madinah #holy #saudi2034 #rainfall pic.twitter.com/PWCI2abkvX
— News PMC (@newspmc_pk) January 6, 2025
These storms bring strong winds and high waves, lowering visibility and creating hazards for motorists and residents. Authorities advise caution, recommending that the public steer clear of flood-prone and waterlogged areas.
Regions such as Riyadh, Makkah, Al-Baha, and Tabuk are also preparing for severe weather. The NMC expects similar conditions in the Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Hail, Qassim, and the Eastern Region.
The Crisis and Disaster Management Center in Makkah urges caution, particularly for motorists and beachgoers, to avoid high-risk areas. The centre also warns of potential traffic delays and flooding.
Expect continued torrential rainfall, hail, and dust storms in Makkah City, Jeddah, Bahra, and surrounding areas, while Taif, Maysan, and Al-Qunfudah will experience moderate to heavy rainfall.
This severe weather is part of a larger storm system that is already causing significant regional disruptions. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will provide ongoing updates.