UAE Witnesses Heaviest Rain in 75 Years, Flights Suspended: Updates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been grappling with the aftermath of the heaviest rains and floods witnessed in the last 75 years, disrupting daily life and causing widespread chaos. Hundreds of people found themselves stranded in airports, malls, metro stations, and vehicles as the torrential downpour led to power outages and a shortage of drinking water in various areas. Residential complexes and institutions were inundated with floodwaters, exacerbating the situation.
The severe weather conditions forced the suspension of flight services, with flights to Dubai being diverted to alternative destinations. Numerous vehicles were submerged in water, and even popular landmarks like Dubai Mall and the Mall of Emirates were not spared from water ingress. Amidst the chaos, the Malayali community joined in the rescue efforts, demonstrating solidarity during the crisis. Traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s main highway, came to a grinding halt for several hours, further adding to the disruption caused by the relentless rains.
Tragically, the heavy rains claimed lives, with one reported death in the UAE and a significant toll in Oman, where 18 people lost their lives. The situation in the UAE was exacerbated by the significant rainfall recorded in regions like Khatam Al Shakla, with 254 mm of rain recorded in Al Ain. In response to the adverse weather conditions, schools and universities in Dubai and Sharjah shifted to online classes, while companies allowed employees to work from home for safety reasons. Despite rumors of cloud seeding, the UAE Meteorological Center clarified that the heavy rains were the result of a storm system originating from the Arabian Sea, dispelling speculations of artificial intervention.
