Severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall has deluged Riyadh, disrupting road traffic and prompting authorities to close schools.

At least one person died and several others are reportedly missing in Riyadh as a result of severe flooding. 

The Civil Defense Force said it received over 5,000 reports of incidents, including 4,968 in the capital. Almost 100 people trapped by the flooding were rescued. Defense teams also recovered 148 vehicles that were submerged under water.

The rain triggered flash floods in Riyadh and caused power cuts in parts of the city. Witnesses reported that many nearby shops had also flooded.

Authorities have advised citizens to remain indoors until the floodwater subsides. Schools and universities were closed in Riyadh on Sunday.

Pictures posted on the Internet show cars drowning in rainwater.

RA/NJF