A Belgian woman and her son tragically lost their lives in Jordan due to sudden flash floods that struck the historic site of Petra. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, May 4, 2025, has raised concerns about safety in the region, known for its archaeological wonders and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The woman, along with her three children, had been missing since the floods hit the Shoubak region, located approximately 200 kilometers south of Amman. The bodies of the mother and her youngest son were discovered on Monday, May 5, 2025, after an extensive search by local authorities. Thankfully, the other two children were found safe and in good health.
According to the FOD Buitenlandse Zaken, the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they are closely monitoring the situation. "We are aware of the case and mourn the loss of our two citizens. We are following this matter closely with our embassy in Amman," a spokesperson stated. The ministry confirmed the identities of the deceased, who hailed from the village of Evelette in the province of Namen.
The family was reportedly on an adventure trip without a guide, part of a larger group that was also affected by the floods. Most of this group was successfully evacuated by local authorities. However, the unfortunate incident involving the Belgian family has sparked an investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding their deaths.
On the same day, nearly 1,800 tourists were evacuated from Petra as the site experienced severe flooding. Local officials reported that 1,785 visitors were present at the site when the floods occurred, with many being rescued by civil protection teams. Yazan Mohadin, a local official, indicated that no access tickets were sold in the afternoon as a precautionary measure.
Videos released by the Jordanian meteorological institute show torrents of water cascading down the rocky cliffs of Petra, flooding areas near the famous Al Khazneh tomb. This historic site, recognized as one of the seven new wonders of the world since 2007, has faced similar evacuations in the past due to increasingly intense rain and storms.
The region has a history of sudden floods, which have become more frequent in recent years, posing risks to both residents and tourists. The floods on May 4 were particularly severe, leading to the tragic loss of life and prompting authorities to take immediate action to ensure the safety of others.
In light of the recent events, many are calling for improved safety measures for tourists visiting the region. The Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that they are cooperating with local authorities to investigate the incident further. As the search for answers continues, the community mourns the loss of a mother and her son, whose lives were cut short during what should have been an adventure.
Petra, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history, remains a popular destination despite the recent tragedies. The site attracts thousands of visitors each year, eager to explore its ancient wonders. However, the recent floods serve as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and the importance of safety measures in tourist areas.
As investigations proceed, the local government is also looking into the long-term implications of climate change on the region, which has seen an uptick in extreme weather events. This situation highlights the need for both tourists and local authorities to remain vigilant in the face of changing environmental conditions.
In summary, the recent floods in Jordan have not only claimed the lives of two Belgians but have also raised important questions about tourist safety and environmental preparedness in a region that is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. As the world watches, the hope is that lessons will be learned to prevent such tragedies in the future.
