Heavy rains and thunderstorms returned to UAE two weeks after the region was hit by raging storms. On Wednesday, the state’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) elevated the readiness and preparedness levels of the national system to deal with the situation.
Transportation Affected
Harsh weather lashing the UAE today led to the cancellation of several international flights.
Dubai-based Emirates airline announced the cancellation of several flights due to bad weather across the UAE as movements at Dubai International Airport (DXB) were reduced. “Customers arriving or departing from Dubai airport on 2 May can expect some delays as flights are rescheduled,” Emirates said in a statement.
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways also experienced disruptions, with a flight from Mumbai being diverted to Al-Ain.
As flights were diverted and bus services temporarily suspended, Dubai Metro extended its operating hours, albeit with reduced stops, to accommodate travellers amid the weather disruptions.
#Reminder: To facilitate your transportation to and from Dubai International Airport, #RTA informs you that #DubaiMetro operating hours will be extended today Thursday, 2nd of May, from 12:00 AM midnight to 5:00 AM (next day). Trains will only stop at the following stations:… pic.twitter.com/cMrwPmUked
— RTA (@rta_dubai) May 2, 2024
Precautions Advised
#NCEMA urges the esteemed public to adhere to all instructions and guidelines issued by relevant authorities to safeguard lives and properties. pic.twitter.com/InFy9Q2CVR
— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) May 2, 2024
While the severity of these rains was anticipated to be less than the previous events, authorities have urged the public to take precautions. Remote learning was recommended for educational institutions and remote work systems were advised for government and private sectors, barring essential jobs requiring physical presence.
To decrease risk, the Ministry of Interior closed roads leading to flood-prone areas and advised citizens to avoid mountainous, desert and coastal regions. Motorists were urged to exercise caution and sailors against sailing during the adverse weather.
Recovery from Heavy Storms
The UAE continues to recover from the severe flooding experienced in April, which caused significant damage and obstructions across the state. Measures are being implemented to better drainage infrastructure and preparedness for future weather events.
Climate Change Concerns
Researchers have linked extreme weather events like these storms to climate change, suggesting the potential for more frequent and intense weather patterns in the future.
