Yemen: Heavy rains and flash floods kill 13 people

Dubai: At least 13 people were killed, including two children, after heavy rains and flash floods swept through parts of Yemen, local media reported.

Fatalities were reported in Sanaa, Ibb, Shabwa and Hodeida, where rains started late last month, officials said. Heavy rains also lashed the provinces of Aden, Taiz and Hadramawt, where flooding destroyed houses and vehicles. Rescuers managed to save some residents trapped in their cars.

Yemen’s National Meteorological Centre issued statements in recent days warning Yemenis to stay away from flood ducts in affected areas and to take necessary precautions. Yemen’s rainy season runs from April through August.

Last year, flooding in Yemen left dozens dead and forced tens of thousands to leave their homes.