Jordan's Tourist Rescue: 1,800 Evacuated from Petra Floods.

Flash Floods Hit Petra, Leading to Mass Evacuations

Petra, Jordan: On May 4, 2025, Jordan faced a sudden natural disaster as flash floods hit the ancient city of Petra, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. In response, the country’s authorities evacuated nearly 1,800 tourists from the area, ensuring their safety.

The floods followed heavy rainfall in the region, turning the usually dry paths and ravines of Petra into dangerous torrents. The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) quickly launched evacuation operations, guiding tourists to safe zones. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported.

Quick Response to the Crisis

The swift actions by rescue teams and local authorities helped manage the situation effectively. Civil defense units were deployed to assist tourists in evacuating Al-Khazneh (the Treasury), the Siq gorge, and Mount Haroun, some of Petra’s most iconic and visited sites. The authorities also suspended ticket sales and urged everyone to stay away from flood-prone areas.

Tourism and Safety in Petra

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, draws millions of visitors each year, with its rock-cut architecture and stunning views. However, recent years have seen an increase in heavy rainfall and storm activity, leading to more frequent weather-related disruptions.

In light of this, the PDTRA has promised to monitor the situation and improve disaster preparedness in the future. The aim is to safeguard both the cultural heritage of Petra and the safety of its visitors.

Why This Rule Was Introduced

Indian Railways took this step to: