The recent heavy rainfall in the United Arab Emirates caused chaos and disruptions at Dubai’s international airport, one of the busiest airports in the world. The downpour led to flight cancellations and delays, leaving travelers stranded for hours both inside the terminal and on the flooded tarmac. Footage showed the airport submerged in water, making it impossible for passengers to navigate through the airport. Fly Dubai, a government-owned budget carrier, had to suspend all flights from the UAE hub due to the extreme weather conditions, leaving passengers in limbo until the situation improved.
The National Centre of Meteorology confirmed that the UAE experienced its heaviest rainfall ever recorded, with the eastern emirate of Al Ain receiving a staggering 254.8 mm (10 inches) in less than 24 hours. This amount of rainfall shattered previous records, with over 100 mm of rain in other parts of the country, marking a 75-year record since rainfall measurements began in the UAE. These unprecedented weather conditions led to road blockages, flooding, and a red warning issued by the government, urging residents to stay home and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
The torrential rains didn’t just impact air travel but also caused widespread flooding and damage to infrastructure across the UAE. The main road connecting Dubai to the capital city, Abu Dhabi, was gridlocked, and public transportation systems like the Dubai metro and mall were overwhelmed by the deluge. Shocking videos emerged showing cars floating down waterlogged streets, highlighting the severity of the situation. The UAE government and authorities advised people to park their vehicles in elevated areas and avoid flood-prone zones to minimize property damage and stay safe during the extreme weather.
The heavy storms that hit the UAE were part of a larger weather system affecting several parts of the Middle East. Reports indicated that at least 18 people in Oman lost their lives due to flooding, underscoring the devastating consequences of such extreme weather events. The UAE’s infrastructure and emergency response mechanisms were put to the test, raising concerns about the country’s preparedness for future climate-related disasters. As the region grapples with the aftermath of record rainfall, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust disaster mitigation and response strategies to protect lives and livelihoods in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.