Dubai, along with the rest of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was pummelled by heavy thunderstorms on Tuesday, causing widespread flooding and wreaking havoc across the region. Dubai received a staggering amount of rainfall – exceeding a year and a half’s worth – in just a few hours. This extreme weather event crippled major highways and homes and significantly disrupted operations at Dubai International Airport, a major international travel centre.
The continual rainfall, which began late Monday and intensified through Tuesday, saw Dubai receiving over 142 millimetres (5.59 inches) of rain within a few hours, surpassing its average annual rainfall of 94.7 millimetres (3.73 inches) at the international airport. As roads turned into rivers and vehicles floated through flooded streets, emergency responders navigated through the chaos with flashing lights.
Dubai International Airport and Public Transport
Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, was severely impacted, with flights disrupted and operations briefly suspended for 25 minutes. Over a dozen flights were cancelled and many more faced delays or diversions, leaving passengers stranded.
#WATCH: Video shows the tarmac of Dubai International Airport underwater after a year’s worth of rain unleashed immense flash flooding. #9News
DETAILS HERE: https://t.co/y6M10xGktQ pic.twitter.com/cB8Sbf3ank
— 9News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) April 17, 2024
Public transportation services, including the driverless Metro system, were also disrupted due to flooding at several stations.
Tragedy in Ras al-Khaimah and Steps Taken
Amidst the chaos, tragedy struck in the northern emirate of Ras al-Khaimah, where a 70-year-old Emirati man reportedly lost his life after his vehicle was swept away by floodwaters.
Despite such adversities, many steps have been taken by the community and authority in order not to worsen the situation in any way. Authorities deployed tanker trucks to pump out water from flooded areas while residents worked tirelessly to protect their homes and belongings from the water. However, the extent of the damage and the full impact on infrastructure and livelihoods are yet to be fully assessed.
Impact in Oman
The severe rainfall wasn’t confined to northern UAE alone, as neighbouring Sultanate, Oman, also grappled with severe weather conditions, with the death toll rising to 18 due to the heavy rains. Among the deaths were 10 schoolchildren and an adult. Expressions of condolence have poured in from across the region.
Precautionary Measures
As the UAE braces for further disturbances, authorities have extended remote schooling and work arrangements into Wednesday, emphasizing safety amidst the ongoing uncertainties. Businesses and many private sector workers also opted homestay as a precaution.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to safeguard lives and belongings.
الجهات المعنية في دبي تؤكد استعدادها للتعامل مع الحالة الجوية السائدة، بهدف ضمان سلامة الجميع
أرقام الطوارئ:
999
شرطة دبي للحالات الطارئة
901
شرطة دبي للحالات الغير طارئة997
الدفاع المدني دبي998
إسعاف دبي991
هيئة كهرباء ومياه دبي800900
بلدية دبي8009090
طرق دبي pic.twitter.com/5BCMb8OLZe— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 15, 2024
Comments 1