DFA URGES OFWs IN WESTERN SAUDI ARABIA TO PREPARE FOR CYCLONE

 

27 May 2018 - The Department of Foreign Affairs has warned Filipinos working in Saudi Arabia to take precautionary measures ahead of a powerful tropical cyclone that is expected to make landfall in the western region of the Kingdom on Saturday evening. 

 

The DFA issued the warning through an advisory issued by the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah to members of the Filipino Community, especially those in Najran and surrounding areas.

 

“We would like to advise our Kababayans in the Western Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, especially those residing in Najran and nearby areas, to prepare for torrential rains, possible flashfloods and decreased visibility as tropical cyclone Mekunu makes landfall in some parts of the Kingdom tonight,” the advisory from the Consulate read.

 

According to Consul General Edgar Badajos, the Saudi General Authority of Meteorology and Environment Protection (GAMEP) has predicted heavy rains for some parts of the Kingdom from Saturday, 26 May until Tuesday, 29 May. 

 

Consul General Badajos said GAMEP also predicts the rain will be accompanied by active wind and dust leading to a lack of horizontal visibility in Najran, especially in Al Kharkhir area. 

 

Dust brought about by the winds is also expected to reduce visibility over Tabuk, Madinah, Makkah, Sharqiyah and Riyadh. Rainy clouds are further expected over Jizan, Asir and Al Baha region.

 

Consul General Badajos said there are an estimated 8000 Filipinos in Najran; 15,000 in Johann; and 13,000 in Khamis Mushayt.

 

The Saudi Civil Defense has advised the public to stay away from streams and torrents of valleys in areas to be affected by heavy rains.

 

Those who may need assistance as a result of the storm may call the Saudi Civil Defense through 998 or the Consulate’s hotline 0555219613. END