The United Arab Emirates experienced the heaviest rainfall ever recorded on Tuesday. The bodies of water were particularly visible in Dubai. According to local media, one man fell victim to the floods.
Meteorologists report that more rain fell on the region’s bone-dry earth in just a few hours than in a year and a half. Streets have turned into rivers and countless houses are flooded.
Videos show how the tarmac at Dubai International Airport was flooded. Airplane pilots tried to navigate their planes through the water. There were numerous cancellations due to the erratic weather. Passengers were temporarily advised not to even go to the airport.
Disruptions also on Wednesday
The disruption to airport operations lasted until Wednesday. Access roads were blocked by flooding. National carrier Emirates reported flight delays. The low-cost airline ‘Flydubai’ canceled all flights on Wednesday.
The rain fell so heavily and quickly on Tuesday that some motorists had to abandon their vehicles as water quickly rose in the streets. Videos on social media show water rushing through a large shopping center and flooding homes.
One fatality so far
At least one person was killed. A 70-year-old man in Ras Al-Khaimah, one of the country’s seven emirates, was swept away in his car, police said. At least 18 people are said to have been killed in neighboring Oman.
The rain started Monday evening and continued until Tuesday evening. The UAE government media office wrote on its X account that the rain was an “extraordinary” climate event. More rain is expected.
Impressions from Dubai:
Like the rest of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has a warm and dry climate. As a result, rain is rare and many areas have inadequate infrastructure to cope with extreme weather events.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
