The UAE Was Hit By Its Heaviest Rainfall In 75 Years And The Videos Look Unreal
Parts of the UAE received the highest amount of rainfall in 75 years, according to the government.
Torrential rains inundated parts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), leading to flooding on major highways and also flights being disrupted at Dubai International Airport.
The region received the highest amount of rainfall in 75 years, according to the government.
The rain started on Monday night, and by Tuesday evening, Dubai had received over 120mm (4.75 in) – more than its average yearly rainfall.
Some interior regions of the UAE received nearly 80 mm (3.2 in) of rain in a single day, almost reaching their yearly average of roughly 100 mm.
The downpour flooded homes and roads, stranding vehicles.
Major malls such as the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, as well as Dubai’s metro station, were swamped in ankle-deep water.
Videos showed the runway of Dubai International Airport, the world’s second-busiest airport, flooded in water.
Operations resumed after 25 minutes, “but continued to be significantly disrupted,” the airport, which handles more than 100 flight landings on a regular evening, said in a statement.
In response to the severe weather, schools throughout the UAE were closed, and Dubai’s government also announced remote work for all employees.
The UAE government media office said that the heavy rain was an “exceptional” weather event and that more rain is anticipated before dry weather returns.
Heavy rain also affected neighboring countries; in Oman, at least 18 people, including nine children, were killed as a result of flash floods.
Located on the dry Arabian Peninsula, the UAE often receives little rain, though it does pour occasionally during the winter months.
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