Red Alert Rains Flood Mecca & Jeddah, Halt Events in Saudi Arabia

• Heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in Mecca, Jeddah, and surrounding areas, turning roads into ponds.
• The Meteorological Department issued a red alert, leading to school closures and online classes.
• Major events like the Red Sea International Film Festival and a US Embassy gala were canceled due to the extreme weather.
• Widespread traffic disruptions, power outages, and road closures occurred, with authorities warning people to avoid low-lying areas.
• Further rainfall, hailstorms, and dust storms are expected in other Saudi regions, with authorities urging caution and adherence to government instructions.

Why It Matters: Rare, severe floods in Saudi Arabia's desert disrupt life and major events.