Saudi authorities lift alerts after warning of danger in multiple areas

Saudi authorities said Thursday the threat that prompted early warning alerts in the Red Sea cities of Jeddah and Yanbu was over, after similar alerts were issued for Mecca and Taif, without specifying the nature of the threat.

The National Early Warning Platform issued alerts and advised residents in several areas to follow safety procedures. Authorities later said the danger had passed in Taif, Jeddah and Yanbu and the conditions were back to normal.

Saudi authorities did not immediately state what prompted the warnings, or report any casualties or damage.

The alerts came amid rising regional tensions and a string of missile and drone attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. In recent days, Saudi Arabia has intercepted aerial threats including a drone heading toward the holy city of Mecca.

Some Saudi accusations regarding attacks on the kingdom have been denied by the Houthis.

Saudi Civil Defence has issued similar short-lived warnings in several parts of the country in recent days, including Jeddah, Taif and Yanbu.

Authorities urged residents to remain calm, follow official guidance and stay away from affected areas.