On Tuesday, April 16, Dubai experienced torrential rains that resulted in impressive flooding at the airport and in the city. The runways of Dubai International Airport were completely submerged, leading to the diversion of arriving flights.
According to environmental media outlet Bon Pote, the airport received a staggering 119 mm of rain in just 24 hours, which is 1.5 times more than the average annual rainfall in the region.
The flooding at the airport caused chaos and disruption, with more than 100 flights expected to arrive that evening. Operations were temporarily suspended for 25 minutes as the airport grappled with the aftermath of the storm.
This rare phenomenon in the desert country left the airport resembling a swimming pool, as images circulating on social media showed the submerged tracks.
The flooding was not limited to the airport alone. Major shopping centers, roads, and even a metro station in Dubai were also affected by the heavy rainfall. Social media posts showcased images of waterlogged malls and streets, highlighting the extent of the flooding.
The city came to a standstill as the residents faced the challenges posed by the unexpected weather conditions.
As a result of the flooding, schools in the Emirates were closed, and this closure is expected to continue into the next day due to the forecast of further heavy rain.
The Dubai government also extended teleworking for its employees until Wednesday, recognizing the need to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
The recent flooding in Dubai, as well as in other Gulf countries like Bahrain and Oman, has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on extreme weather events.
Both the Emirati and Omani governments have warned about the potential for increased flooding as a result of climate change.
In Oman, the flooding has already claimed the lives of at least 18 people, with tragic incidents involving schoolchildren and adults being swept away by flash floods.
The discovery of a child’s body further underscores the devastating consequences of the heavy rainfall in the region.
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