Dubai has been brought to a standstill by heavy rain and storms, leading to widespread flooding across the desert nation. The record rainfall has resulted in significant disruptions, including delayed or diverted flights and stranded vehicles on flooded roads.
Flight Disruptions and Airport Chaos
Dubai Airport, the world's busiest by international traffic, has been severely affected, with passengers urged to avoid unnecessary travel to the airport. Over 500 flights, both inbound and outbound, have been diverted, delayed, or cancelled due to the adverse weather conditions. Specifically, 28 flights to and from India have been cancelled, causing considerable inconvenience to travellers.
Impact on Emirates Airline and Shopping Centers
Emirates Airlines, Dubai's flagship carrier, has suspended all check-ins for passengers for the day due to the travel chaos caused by the bad weather. Additionally, flagship shopping centres such as Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have suffered flooding, with water levels reaching ankle-deep at Metro stations.
Widespread Effects and Precautionary Measures
The impact of the storm has extended beyond Dubai, affecting the entire UAE and neighbouring Bahrain, where similar scenes of flooding and chaos have been reported. Schools have been closed, and further storms, including hail, are forecasted, leading authorities to extend remote working arrangements for government employees.
Climate Change Concerns
The storms and heavy rainfall in the region follow similar weather patterns in Oman, where 18 people, including several children, lost their lives due to the adverse conditions. Oman experienced its highest rainfall since records began in 1949, prompting concerns about the effects of climate change on extreme weather events. Both Oman and the UAE have emphasized the need for residents to take precautions and avoid areas prone to flooding.
In Conclusion
The recent heavy rain and storms in Dubai and neighbouring regions highlight the vulnerability of urban centres to extreme weather events and underscore the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the impact of climate change on communities and infrastructure.
