Fahd Al-Manaee Saudi Gazette MAKKAH – Floods caused by heavy rains at Al-Kar and Al-Hada mountains prevented scores of residents from getting to their homes in several valleys outside Makkah Thursday night. The Civil Defense sent text messages warning drivers to stay off of roads and avoid flood-hit areas. Despite this warning, many drivers attempted to navigate flood waters and were forced to abandon their vehicles and fight heavy currents to get to dry land. Noman Valley's roads were recently asphalted and streetlights erected but floodwaters caused extensive damage to infrastructure and there were reports of downed light poles that in turn caused small fires. Civil Defense rescue teams were put on alert to respond to any emergency situation. More than 10 people had to be saved by rescue teams after they became trapped in the flood. They suffered light injuries. Three vehicles became submerged in floodwaters and had to be removed. Makkah Civil Defense spokesman Maj. Gen. Salih Al-Alyani said teams remain on standby and are ready to deal with any emergency situation.
