Mecca, Saudi Arabia, January 6, 2025 — Saudi Arabia’s holiest city, Mecca, has been hit by extreme flooding following unprecedented rainfall. The deluge has disrupted daily life, caused significant damage to infrastructure, and forced authorities to implement emergency measures to protect residents and pilgrims.
Unprecedented Rainfall and Impact on Mecca
The extreme weather brought torrential downpours, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems and leaving roads submerged under several feet of water. Videos circulating on social media show vehicles being swept away by strong currents and residents wading through flooded streets in search of higher ground.
The city, which hosts millions of pilgrims annually for the Islamic Hajj and Umrah, has been particularly vulnerable to such extreme weather events due to its dense infrastructure and limited natural drainage. Local authorities have confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, but the extent of property damage is still being assessed.
Emergency Measures and Response
Saudi emergency services have been deployed to assist residents and ensure the safety of those affected. Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to evacuate people from flooded areas and provide essential supplies to those in need.
In a statement, the Saudi Civil Defense urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow safety instructions. “We are mobilizing all resources to address the situation and ensure the safety of our citizens and visitors,” the statement read.
Authorities have also closed schools and businesses temporarily, while efforts to clear debris and pump out floodwaters are underway.
Pilgrimage Disruptions
The flooding has caused significant disruptions to activities at the Grand Mosque, which attracts millions of pilgrims annually. Although the mosque itself has remained operational, access to certain areas has been restricted due to waterlogging. Officials have assured that the mosque’s operations will continue safely and that preparations are being made to address any additional weather-related challenges.
Climate Change and Increasing Extreme Weather
This extreme weather event highlights the growing impact of climate change on the region. Saudi Arabia, known for its arid climate, has experienced a rise in extreme weather events in recent years, including flash floods and heatwaves. Experts warn that without robust infrastructure and climate mitigation measures, cities like Mecca will face increasing risks from such phenomena.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Shehri, a climate scientist, stated, “The intensity and frequency of these events are a clear indication of changing weather patterns. Urban areas need to invest in resilient infrastructure to withstand these challenges.”
Global Attention and Support
As images and videos of the flooding spread online, messages of support and solidarity have poured in from around the world. Leaders of Muslim-majority countries have expressed their concern and offered assistance to Saudi authorities in managing the crisis.
In a statement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing climate-related disasters and ensuring the safety of religious sites and their visitors.
Looking Ahead
As Saudi Arabia works to recover from this natural disaster, questions remain about the city’s preparedness for future extreme weather events. Investments in infrastructure, emergency planning, and climate adaptation are expected to be at the forefront of discussions as the nation assesses the aftermath of this flooding.
For now, the focus remains on immediate recovery efforts and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and pilgrims in the holy city.
