Dubai, the bustling financial hub in the Middle East, recently experienced a deluge of heavy rain and storms. These extreme weather conditions led to widespread flooding across the desert city-state.
The unprecedented rainfall in Dubai has caused significant disruptions. Flights have been delayed or diverted, affecting travel plans for many passengers. Meanwhile, vehicles have been stranded on waterlogged roads, creating traffic woes and challenges for commuters.
CHAOS as families SWARM Dubai airport in attempt to escape floods pic.twitter.com/G0YDdSMfyY
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) April 17, 2024
In light of the record-breaking rainfall and subsequent flooding in Dubai, authorities have issued a strong advisory to passengers: “Avoid coming to Dubai Airport unless absolutely necessary.”
“Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions,” a Dubai Airports spokesperson said.
Amid the forecast of more rain and storms today, over 500 flights—both inbound and outbound—have been diverted or cancelled. Indian aviation authorities have cancelled approximately 15 flights bound for Dubai, while 13 flights to India have also been affected.
Due to the severe weather conditions in Dubai, Emirates Airline has temporarily suspended passenger check-ins for the day. The airline is diligently working to restore its scheduled operations and is committed to supporting affected customers.
Meanwhile, Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, both prominent shopping centers, experienced flooding. Additionally, ankle-deep water was reported at one of the Dubai Metro stations. Metro trains are currently operating on specific routes while maintenance work is underway at stations along the Red and Green lines.
The severe weather conditions in Dubai have had far-reaching effects, extending beyond the city to impact the entire UAE and neighboring Bahrain. Both countries are experiencing widespread flooding and chaos due to heavy rain and storms.
WATCH: 🇦🇪 Dubai airport UNDER WATER as massive flood hits pic.twitter.com/k5lrKcMWKC
— Radar🚨 (@RadarHits) April 16, 2024
As a precautionary measure, schools have been closed, and authorities have extended remote working arrangements for government employees. Additionally, further storms, including hail, are forecasted for today.
The recent storms and heavy rainfall have significantly impacted the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, following their devastating effects in Oman. Tragically, 18 lives were lost, including several children.
According to official reports, this rainfall is the most substantial recorded since 1949, predating the UAE’s formation in 1971. The severity of the weather has left communities grappling with the aftermath and underscores the importance of disaster preparedness and response efforts.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) weather office has issued an urgent advisory, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid flood-prone areas.
Meanwhile, both Oman and the UAE, which hosted last year’s COP28 UN climate talks, have consistently emphasized that global warming is likely to result in increased incidents of flooding.
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