The recent heavy rains in the UAE have caused devastating flash floods, resulting in at least one fatality. The sudden downpour overwhelmed the drainage systems and led to water levels rising rapidly, catching many residents off guard. The destructive power of nature was on full display as cars were swept away, roads were submerged, and homes were inundated with water.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of extreme weather conditions. It is crucial for authorities to invest in infrastructure that can withstand such intense rainfall and for residents to be aware of evacuation procedures in case of emergencies.
Homes and roads were flooded and partially submerged cars were left abandoned.
The tarmac at Dubai International Airport was also flooded as planes made their way around what looked more like a lake.
The website for Dubai Aiport – one of the world’s busiest airports, which welcomed over 86 million passengers in 2023 – is currently showing that there are at least 20 cancelled flights on 16 April, with dozens more delayed. Affected destinations included cities around India and Pakistan, as well as Saudi Arabia and Manchester.
Flagship shopping centres Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates both suffered flooding, with ankle-deep water in at least one Dubai Metro station, according to images posted on social media.
Lightning was seen flashing across the sky, occasionally touching the tip of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
On Tuesday morning, the UAE's National Centre of Meteorology issued a weather warning for large swathes of the country, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.
The Gulf region is usually known for hot and dry weather, though heavy rains causing flooding have also occurred with greater regularity in recent years.
In neighbouring Oman, authorities said the death toll from flash floods had increased to 18, with some still missing. The dead included 10 students aged between 10 and 15 who were killed on 14 April when the vehicle they were travelling in attempted to cross a flooded area but was swept away.
In Bahrain, footage showed cars stranded in flooded roads.
The main road connecting Dubai to the capital, Abu Dhabi, was gridlocked due to flooding. Dubai’s metro and mall both flooded, and cars were seen floating down roads in many parts of the country in videos seen by CNBC.
The storms hit other parts of the Middle East, with reports at least 18 dead in Oman due to flooding.
Read more
BORUSSIA DORTMUND 4-2 ATLETICO MADRID Champions League: Barcelona vs PSG 1-4 (4-6)
Sarah H
Also on site :
- Matthew Lawrence recalls the sobering advice Mrs Doubtfire co-star Robin Williams gave him
- Every MCU actor that has not been cast in Avengers: Doomsday
- New films, new stories