Amman, January 4 (Petra) – The Cabinet discussed on a Sunday session the impact of the "unprecedented" rainfall the Kingdom experienced over six days equivalent to a full year’s rainfall particularly in the southern regions.

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan affirmed that the rainfall levels are promising and are expected to have positive effects on the agricultural sector and water reserves.

Hassan noted that despite damage to infrastructure in some areas, no citizens were injured, thanks be to God, stressing that floods have occurred in countries with more advanced infrastructure than Jordan.

He directed that immediate and swift measures be taken to repair damaged infrastructure and instructed relevant authorities to complete the necessary studies within one month to reassess and rehabilitate essential infrastructure in accordance with available resources and priorities.

He explained that infrastructure is generally designed based on average rainfall levels, not exceptional weather conditions.

The Prime Minister emphasised the need to immediately implement protective measures for all archaeological and tourist sites across the Kingdom and their surrounding areas to prevent flooding.

He directed the immediate repair of the damaged section of the wall adjacent to Karak Castle.

He further stressed the importance of enforcing strict oversight of residences located in valleys, floodplains and areas prone to flash floods to safeguard people and prevent exposure to danger, particularly during rainy seasons.

The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Finance to allocate JOD10 million from the emergency expenditure fund to improve infrastructure in the governorates, especially those affected by the recent weather conditions.

He directed the Ministers of Agriculture, Social Development and Awqaf and Islamic Affairs to compensate low-income citizens affected by the weather conditions through social protection mechanisms, using additional funding and in accordance with established procedures.

//Petra// AK