Jordanian authorities evacuated approximately 1,800 tourists from the ancient city of Petra on Sunday, May 4, 2025, due to flash floods caused by heavy rainfall [1, 2]. The Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) suspended ticket sales as a precautionary measure to ensure visitor safety [2, 3].
Rescue teams assisted tourists in evacuating the archaeological site, with no injuries reported [2, 3]. Commissioner for Petra Archaeological Park and Tourism, Yazan Mahadin, stated that most of the 1,785 tourists who visited the site on Sunday were safely evacuated from areas including the Treasury, the Siq, Al Rasasa, the Monastery, and Mount Haroun [3].
Videos on social media showed tourists seeking higher ground as floodwaters surged through the rocky landscape [5]. The PDTRA is monitoring weather conditions and has increased preparedness in anticipation of any emergencies, urging visitors to avoid flood paths and low-lying areas [3]. Similar evacuations have occurred in the past due to increasing rains and storms in the area [1].