Hundreds of school and university students in Jeddah were held up at their educational institutions because of heavy rains. A bank across Hail Street said it was sheltering about 100 students from nearby schools who could not reach their homes.
According to informed sources at least 35 students in East Jeddah drowned in flood waters. Many people were reported missing. "This is a long and agonizing night for Jeddah families who are waiting for their loved ones to come home. They are gripped by fear and anxiety," said one Saudi.
In Baghdadiyah, an school was inundated in water and many of its students and teachers were staying on the roof of the school building awaiting assistance. "Tonight many Jeddah people are either staying in hotels or supermarkets without being able to reach their homes," a Saudi teacher said.
He also noticed total breakdown municipal facilities in the city. "We cannot see civil defense officers in many areas where people needed help," he said.
