Dubai Hit by Record Rains and Flooding
In a rare occurrence, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, faced severe flooding and chaos on its highways due to unprecedented rainfall. The city’s infrastructure struggled to cope with the deluge, causing significant disruptions.
Impact of the Heavy Rains
- Giant highways in Dubai were severely congested due to flooding.
- Up to 254 millimeters of rain fell, equivalent to about two years’ worth of rainfall.
- Tragically, one person lost their life in Ras Al-Khaimah after being swept away in a car.
Airport Disruptions and Cancellations
Passengers traveling through Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport, were advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to the challenging conditions. The airport experienced:
- Flight delays and diversions
- Canceled check-ins by Emirates airline
- Flooded access roads and suspended train services
The airport staff and passengers faced difficulties in reaching or leaving the airport, with long taxi queues and disrupted flight schedules.
Regional Impact and Climate Change Concerns
The storms not only affected the UAE but also impacted Bahrain and Oman, where casualties were reported. Climatologist Friederike Otto suggested that climate change likely exacerbated the severity of the storms.
Official reports indicated that this was the highest recorded rainfall in Dubai since 1949, underscoring the unprecedented nature of the weather event.
