Heavy Rain with Thunderstorms Unloaded in Saudi Arabia, Causing Travel Delays and Flooding

According to a weather report, heavy rain with thunderstorms unloaded in portions of Saudi Araba, causing flooding and travel hazards last week.

The flooding and rainfall caused alerts to motorists and residents. Local authorities and rescuers were deployed in affected areas to help.

The report said the Jeddah Civil Defense helped in the rescue operations for motorists being trapped in their vehicles due to the flooding.

Flooding rainfall

(Photo : by AMER HILABI/AFP via Getty Images)
Jeddah on November 24, 2022

According to AccuWeather's new report, it sad that portions of western Saudi Arabia experienced heavy rain causing flooding on major roads.

The report revealed the unusual and unabated heavy rains for over six hours, causing about 179 mm of rain.

The impact of the heavy rain and flooding, the report said that it caused flight hazards and delays. Meanwhile, the flooding and rainfall affected the classes in public schools located in Jeddah.

Residents who were trapped in the flooding were helped. The news report said that roads could not pass due to the flooding in the area, while some cards were submerged.

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Meanwhile, the Saudi Gazette reported two fatalities from the flooding trapped in a vehicle.

What to do during flooding rainfall

Heavy rain for hours could cause small to catastrophic flooding. It could damage vehicles, properties, or infrastructures.

Flooding could result in evacuations as the seawater or floodwater rapidly rises.

When a flood is life-threatening, it is important to know what to do to prevent fatalities and injuries. Here are some reminders.

Know the weather news

Staying updated with the weather developments could help better prepare for the potential impact of storms or heavy rain. It will indicate travel advisories or places that could expect the brunt of a storm system-knowing the time and when a storm could help you save the day from the stress of flooded roads and reduced road visibility.

Prepare a fully-charged mobile phone or power bank

A mobile phone is helpful in emergencies because you can inform the nearest helping center or family about your situation. Storms with strong winds could also damage power lines causing temporary power outages.

Check the main roads

As mentioned above, streets and main roads could submerge from water, including your vehicles. You could prepare ahead about the storm's impact or whether it could affect your outdoor travel. If a road or area is flooded, you could notify your family or any help. Stay calm, and it is best to drive on other routes.

Best to stay at home

If your outdoor travel or commute is not important, it is best to reschedule it. If a storm is powerful, it results in flooding rainfall. While at home, check your home for the storm's impact, and repair it immediately.

Evacuate

If you live near the coast and the river or seawater rapidly rises, prepare to evacuate to the nearest shelter or upon the announcements of your local authorities. Floodwaters could lead to a life-threatening situation, and knowing what to do could help you and your family.