Heavy rains struck southern Jordan on Sunday afternoon, triggering flash floods that poured into Petra’s narrow rock-carved passageways. The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) halted ticket sales and temporarily closed access to the site as a precaution.
However, tourist activities resumed today in the ancient city of Petra, just one day after flash floods swept through the area, forcing the evacuation of nearly 1,800 visitors, according to Jordanian authorities.
Authorities say emergency plans worked effectively
Yazan Mahadin, Commissioner of the PDTRA, stated that emergency crews were promptly deployed and implemented a coordinated response plan. He emphasized that public safety was prioritized, leading to the swift evacuation of visitors, repairs of affected areas, and resumption of operations.
Authorities confirmed that 1,785 tourists were inside Petra at the time of the flooding. All were safely evacuated without injury.
Videos released by Jordan’s meteorological department showed water surging through the site’s narrow walkways, including areas around the iconic Treasury monument, one of Petra’s most recognized landmarks.
Repairs and inspections completed before reopening
The site reopened Monday morning following safety inspections and repairs. Flood channels were cleared, damaged trails restored, and field teams stationed throughout the archaeological reserve to monitor conditions. Local businesses and shops around the site also reopened as weather conditions improved.
Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. The city, carved from rose-colored cliffs by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, is particularly susceptible to flash flooding due to its geography and infrastructure.
Petra has faced deadly floods in the past
Sunday’s event is the latest in a series of weather-related incidents at Petra. In December 2022, heavy rain led to widespread flooding and the evacuation of tourists, though no casualties were reported.
More severe incidents have occurred in the past, including a deadly flood in 1963 that killed 22 French tourists and a local guide. In 2018, flash flooding resulted in over 30 deaths, affecting both Petra and the Dead Sea region.
Following the 2018 tragedy, authorities installed a flood warning system equipped with sirens and enhanced emergency preparedness protocols. This system was activated during Sunday’s storm, facilitating the quick evacuation of visitors.
Officials urge caution despite clear skies
Mahadin emphasized that Petra remains open but urged tourists to remain cautious and heed weather updates. He reiterated that the safety of visitors and residents is the top priority, with authorities committed to maintaining a safe environment.
Tourism officials confirmed that visitor numbers would be monitored in the coming days, and additional safety measures would be implemented if necessary.
Tragic incident near Petra
While the evacuation in Petra was carried out without injuries, a tragic incident occurred nearby. A Belgian mother and her son died due to flash floods in the Wadi al-Nakhil area, approximately 25 kilometers from Petra.
They were part of an 18-member adventure group caught in the sudden flooding. Fourteen Czech tourists were rescued, and the two other children of the deceased woman were found alive.
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