JEDDAH, Jul 13 (Arab News): Seven people died and three are missing as a result of heavy floods caused by torrential rains in Najran, Laith, Qunfuda and Jazan, according to Maj. Abdullah Al-Harithy, spokesman for the Civil Defense.

He said his officers had rescued 85 people marooned by floodwaters. “Our department had cautioned the public against rains and floods. But some people still ignore such warnings and put themselves and their families in trouble,” he said.

“People traveling in vehicles should not try to cross flooded areas and endanger their lives,” he added.

Heavy rains were reported on Monday in different parts of the Kingdom including Baha, Asir, Jazan, Najran, Laith and Qunfuda.

Meanwhile, Hussein Al-Qahtani, spokesman for the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment, said the rains were expected.

He, however, ruled out foreign media reports that the Kingdom would witness intense rains and heavy floods. He added that the presidency would keep the public informed about the weather through the media.