In late November, Jeddah experienced unprecedented rains that led to catastrophic flooding across the city, coinciding with the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest mass gatherings in the world. Jeddah's streets were transformed into rivers as heavy downpours overwhelmed the city's drainage systems, which were not equipped to handle such extreme weather conditions. Reports indicated that more than 3,000 vehicles were swept away, showcasing the scale of the disaster. The flooding resulted in at least 122 confirmed deaths, with many residents still unaccounted for in the aftermath. Rescue teams faced immense challenges due to the suddenness and severity of the flooding, leading to chaotic scenes across the city.

Amidst these challenges, emergency responders and volunteers worked tirelessly to locate missing persons and provide assistance to those affected. The flooding raised concerns over the city's infrastructure and preparedness for such natural disasters, especially during the critical period of Hajj when millions of pilgrims are present. The rain not only damaged properties and claimed lives but also disrupted the pilgrimage for many, as roads were rendered impassable, impacting travel and safety. The event emphasized Jeddah’s vulnerability to natural disasters and highlighted the pressing need for systemic improvements in urban planning and disaster response protocols in Saudi Arabia.

In the days following the floods, public outcry ensued regarding the government’s response and the city's drainage system inadequacies. Investigations were launched to determine the causes of the flooding, focusing on urban management practices and previous flood prevention measures. The shocking nature of this event reignited discussions on climate change and its potential impact on the region’s future weather patterns.