Skip to main content
26 Oct 2018 | 01:08 PM UTC

Jordan: Flooding in Zara Maeen October 25-26; death toll rises /update 1

Flash flooding leaves at least 19 dead in Zara Maeen hot springs area as of October 26; associated disruptions expected.

Warning

Event

Flash flooding caused by heavy rain ongoing since Thursday, October 25, has left at least 19 people dead and over three dozen others injured in the Zara Maeen hot springs area, near the Dead Sea, as of Friday. Most of those killed were reportedly students on a school trip to the region. Further rain is forecast in the Dead Sea area throughout the day, which may exacerbate flooding. Localized traffic disruptions are to be expected in affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in the Dead Sea area are advised to allow for extra time to reach their destinations and to avoid areas still affected by flooding. Keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.