Cape Town - Severe thunderstorms and torrential rain have caused widespread flooding throughout Egypt, killing five people.
Flash floods hit most regions of the North African country on Thursday, with raging thunder and lightning in the southern province Qena, where many civilians were reported injured.
The inclement weather, named the "Dragon storm", has been making its way through north Africa, and is expected to reach Israel within the next 48 hours.
Egypt declared a state of emergency due to the storm earlier in the week.
According to London-based Arabic news publication Asharq Al-Awsat, strong winds had blown a car into a canal, killing a motorist. A young child was also among the fatalities. Walls of dust had obscured villages, leaving many businesses unable to operate.
Thunder and lightning had ignited several fires across the country, killing a technician who was working on the local electrical lines, reported the publication.
The government closed schools, businesses and Luxor airport. Cairo international airport remains open.
In addition, three seaports have also been closed, as well as Nile river cruises, railways and highways.