Battered by record-breaking rain on April 15, Dubai grapples with a paralysed city. Clogged highways, ankle-deep water in metro stations, and school closures are just some of the disruptions caused by the floods in Dubai. A 70-year-old man tragically lost his life in Ras Al-Khaimah when floodwaters swept his car away. Reports also detail flooded tunnels, widespread power outages, and even damage to luxury stores in shopping malls.
Dubai’s neighbouring city, Sharjah, also faces significant flooding. Residents were forced to wade through waist-deep water on makeshift rafts to navigate the flooded streets. Some residents were stranded in offices or forced to stay in their cars overnight to avoid the relentless downpour.
The world’s busiest international airport, Dubai Airport, struggled with delayed operations due to stranded staff unable to reach work amidst suspended public transportation. Numerous airlines also implemented temporary halts, diversions, or delays due to the rough weather.
For the latest airport updates and advisory, check our story on Dubai’s Travel Advisory and Helpline Numbers Issued By The Indian Consulate.
Flooded malls, submerged streets, and more: Dubai battles record rainfall
Dubai: Did cloud seeding cause the flooding in UAE? https://t.co/7BBG3dF7D7
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) April 17, 2024
The paralysed city received a staggering 25 cm (10 inches) of rainfall in just 24 hours. The severity becomes clear when considering that Dubai typically receives this amount of rain in two years. According to the National Centre of Meteorology, this is the highest rainfall event in the city’s history.
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Nearby cities like Oman (with at least 18 fatalities) and Al Ain (255 mm rainfall on April 16) also faced severe flooding, disruptions and damages due to the relentless rains.
While the exact cause of these extreme rains remains under investigation, some experts point to Dubai’s cloud seeding efforts, which can lead to unpredictable and forceful downpours. Another theory blames climate change, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall events.
(Feature Image Credit: Katiekk/Shutterstock)
Related: 7 Top Things To Do At Dubai Airport When You Fly There Next
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