Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the civil defense committee, Prince Mishaal said emergency assistance would give given to the flood victims. "Panels have been set up to assess damages and meet requirements of those affected by the floods," he said.
He urged Saudis and expatriates to cooperate with government departments and extend volunteer services to deal with the situation caused by unprecedented rains. He instructed civil defense officials to keep him updated about developments after every six hours.
"We'll provide shelter to everyone who deserves shelter and panels have started providing accommodation for flood victims," Prince Mishaal said and urged the public to show restraint and follow safety instructions.
Civil defense officers have rescued 85 people using helicopters and 200 others using boats, the prince said, adding that four helicopters are in the sky to monitor flooding and support rescue operation.
Meanwhile, the civil defense has urged the public to keep away from inundated areas and stay at home as far as possible during heavy rains. Brig. Abdullah Jeddawi, director of the department, said civil defense officers have been deployed in flood-hit areas such as Quwaizah, Um Al-Khair, Obaid, Ajwad, Samir and Towfik. "Officers in 32 civil defense centers have been readied to face any eventualities," he said.
