Dubai Hit by Heavy Rain, Flash Floods Leave 20 Dead
The Gulf states are facing a deluge of heavy rain, with flash floods claiming the lives of 20 people and causing chaos at Dubai Airport, the world’s second-busiest airport.
Dubai Airport is battling “very challenging conditions” as runways are submerged in water, leading to disrupted flights and advising passengers to stay away.
Tragedy struck further north as a man lost his life when his car got caught in the flash floods.
In Oman, the death toll reached 19 as rescuers recovered the body of a girl in Saham, with warnings of more thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds to come.
Record Rainfall and Devastation in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates, Oman’s neighbor to the north, witnessed its largest rainfall event in 75 years, with 254.8mm (9.7in) of rain in less than 24 hours at Khatm al-Shakla in al-Ain.
Normal rainfall averages between 140-200 mm per year in the UAE, with Dubai typically receiving only 97mm annually. April usually sees just 8mm of rain.
Footage from Dubai showed submerged vehicles on Sheikh Zayed Road and stranded tourists like Caroline Seubert, who had to spend the night in a flooded mall.
Impact on Travel and Daily Life
Although no deaths were reported in Dubai, an elderly man perished in Ras al-Khaimah due to flash floods.
Dubai International Airport faced significant disruption, suspending operations, diverting flights, and canceling several due to the intense storm.
Emirates and FlyDubai, major airlines in the region, had to halt check-ins and postpone flights, with the situation described as unprecedented by airport officials.
Regional Responses and Precautions
The UAE’s National Emergency Crisis Management Authority advised people to stay at home, with government employees working remotely and schools opting for online learning.
In Oman, over 1,400 individuals were evacuated to shelters, and schools and government offices closed as a precautionary measure.
The tragic incident involving schoolchildren in Sharqiya province highlighted the dangers of wadis during heavy rainfall events.
Climate Change and Extreme Weather
While some speculate about cloud-seeding causing the record-breaking rainfall, meteorologists suggest it was a result of a low-pressure system drawing moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean.
Climate change plays a role in extreme weather events like these, with a warming atmosphere increasing the likelihood of heavy rainfall and flooding.
As temperatures continue to rise, governments worldwide must take action to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. — BBC
