Saudi authorities enhanced their efforts to contribute to the drying process by employing 470 machines and new equipment, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Rain usually falls in Mecca in small amounts between November and January.

The rainfall, as scant as it is, also presents the threat of flooding and has been a danger since the earliest times.

In December 2010, Mecca was flooded when light to moderate intensity rainfall battered the holy city, claiming the lives of 4 people. (ILKHA)