The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced heavy thunderstorms, bringing an extraordinary amount of rain to Dubai and causing widespread flooding in major areas, including highways and the international airport.
The storms began late on Monday and intensified on Tuesday, dumping over 142mm (5.59 inches) of rain on the desert city-state of Dubai, far surpassing the average yearly rainfall of 94.7mm (3.73 inches) at Dubai International Airport.
The flooding significantly impacted operations at Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel.
Aircraft operations were halted, and passengers faced difficulties reaching terminals due to floodwater covering surrounding roads.
Emirates suspended check-in for passengers due to operational challenges resulting from the heavy rain, with the airport acknowledging limited transportation options and flight disruptions.
Emergency personnel and authorities navigated flooded streets, with lightning flashing across the sky and disruptions to the city’s driverless Metro network.
Schools closed before the storm, and government employees worked remotely, while some ventured out and faced challenges such as stalled vehicles in deep water.
Tanker trucks were deployed to pump water away from the streets, but some homes were also inundated, leading residents to bail out water.
In Ras al-Khaimah, one person tragically lost their life in floodwaters.
Fujairah, another emirate on the UAE’s eastern coast, experienced the heaviest rainfall, prompting cancellations of school and remote work arrangements.
The rarity of rain in the UAE, coupled with inadequate drainage systems, contributed to the widespread flooding.
Rain also affected neighboring countries like Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, where heavy rains resulted in fatalities, including schoolchildren swept away in floodwaters.
Regional leaders extended condolences for the losses incurred due to the heavy rains across the region.
Source-aljazeera
