Heavy rains swept across Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates on Saturday, causing localized flooding, disrupting flights, and bringing traffic to a standstill in several areas. The intense downpour is unusual for the arid nation, which averages under 120 millimeters of precipitation annually.
Over a six-hour period, Dubai received nearly 50 millimeters of rain—a significant amount that overwhelmed drainage systems and led to flooded streets. Authorities dispatched crews to clear fallen tree limbs and open drainage grates, but some areas were quickly inundated.
Dubai police closed sections of major highways as vehicles navigated through standing water. The rare storm also brought lightning, illuminating the afternoon sky and adding to the unusual winter weather.
At Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest hubs for international travel, flights were delayed or rerouted. Both Emirates and FlyDubai reported disruptions, impacting travelers during the busy holiday season.
The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) had warned the public about the approaching storm a day in advance. Emergency services were mobilized in anticipation of the heavy rainfall.
“Rain is currently concentrated on the islands and northern coasts, between heavy and moderate, and it is expected clouds will continue to flow from west to east, accompanied by rainfall,” NCEMA posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The weather is expected to improve on Sunday, with the worst conditions moving to the east and north of the country. Rainfall during the cooler winter months is not unheard of but remains a rare occurrence in the Arabian Peninsula nation.
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Downpour sweeps across Dubai and the wider UAE, flights disrupted
cgtn.com
