Recently, the United Arab Emirates faced unprecedented levels of rainfall, resulting in chaos and disarray at one of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai International Airport. The heavy downpour led to a series of flight cancellations and delays, leaving passengers stranded both inside the terminal and on the flooded tarmac.
The situation escalated to a point where Fly Dubai, a government-owned budget carrier, made the decision to suspend all flights from the UAE hub until 10 a.m. local time on April 17 due to the extreme weather conditions. Passengers found themselves stuck in the airport, unable to reach their departing flights due to road blockages and flooding caused by the heavy rains.
The National Centre of Meteorology confirmed that the eastern emirate of Al Ain experienced the highest level of rainfall in the country, with an astonishing 254.8 mm (10 inches) recorded in less than 24 hours. This amount of rain shattered a 75-year record, highlighting the severity of the weather event that unfolded in the region.
In response to the extreme weather conditions, the government issued a red warning, leading to the closure of offices, schools, and banks across the country. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Authority urged residents to stay home, park vehicles in elevated areas away from flood-prone zones, and take necessary precautions to minimize property damage from heavy rain and hailstorms.
The impact of the storms extended beyond the airport, causing significant disruptions to key infrastructure and transportation networks in the UAE. The main road connecting Dubai to the capital, Abu Dhabi, was gridlocked due to flooding. Additionally, Dubai’s metro and mall were flooded, and disturbing visuals of cars floating down waterlogged streets emerged in videos shared by news outlets.
The extreme weather also affected other parts of the Middle East, with reports indicating that at least 18 individuals lost their lives in Oman as a result of the flooding. The tragic consequences of the storms serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of unpredictable weather events.
The recent spell of extreme rainfall in the United Arab Emirates not only disrupted air travel and daily life but also shed light on the vulnerability of the region to such weather phenomena. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events continue to rise globally, it is crucial for authorities and individuals alike to prioritize safety measures and disaster preparedness to mitigate the impact of future weather-related crises.