Dubai Rains and Flooding: Latest Updates
Officials Take Precautionary Measures
Gulf country’s officials had already asked schools and universities to implement distance learning and advised employers to switch to remote work, on Wednesday (May 1) due to the forecast.
Heavy Rains and Flight Disruptions
Weeks after the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed a record-breaking storm, the oil-rich country once again witnessed heavy rains and flooded roads, on Thursday (May 2). The officials also issued an orange alert on Thursday. The unsettled weather has led to the cancellation of around 13 flights and prompted the closure of schools and offices.
Impact on Transportation and Education
- Gulf country’s officials had already asked schools and universities to implement distance learning and advised employers to switch to remote work, on Wednesday (May 1) due to the forecast of heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday.
- Dubai International Airport confirmed that due to unsettled weather conditions, 13 flights were cancelled and five inbound flights were diverted overnight.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
On Wednesday, UAE’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) ramped up readiness and preparedness levels of the national system to deal with the situation. The officials have urged caution despite expecting less severe rains than last month’s downpour.
Weather Forecast and Advisory
A report by Khaleej Times citing officials from UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology said that the country has been witnessing heavy rains since midnight, with showers and lightning observed in Dubai since around 2:35 am (local time), on Thursday. Officials forecast moderate to heavy rain accompanied by lightning, thunder, and small hailstones concentrated in specific regions.
- Residents are advised to stay away from certain areas and adhere to safety standards and guidelines to avoid risks.
- All roads leading to areas prone to flash floods, water accumulations, and dams have been closed for public safety.
Recurrence of Severe Weather
The recent downpour comes less than a month after the Gulf country faced severe flooding and disruption due to heavy rains. On April 14 and 15, Dubai experienced the heaviest rains on record since 1949.
