Dubai Hit by Severe Flooding as Year's Worth of Rain Falls in a Day
Heavy Downpours Inundate the City-State
A deluge of rain unleashed immense flash flooding in Dubai on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, transforming roads into raging rivers and inundating homes and businesses. More than 120mm (47 inches) of rain soaked the city-state, an amount typically received over a year.
Flooding Causes Major Disruptions
The torrential downpours, which began shortly after midnight, caused widespread disruptions. Vehicles were stranded on flooded streets, and homes were inundated with rushing water. Major roads, including Sheikh Zayed Road, were turned into rivers, making travel impossible.
Dubai Airport Diverts Flights
The heavy rain also impacted flight operations at Dubai International Airport, one of the world's busiest airports. Arrival flights were diverted to other airports in the region as the airport temporarily suspended operations due to flooding on the runways.
Lightning and Thunder Accompany Downpours
The thunder and lightning that accompanied the downpours further added to the chaos. Lightning strikes lit up the skies, while thunder awoke residents and shook buildings.
Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates Also Affected
While Dubai was the hardest-hit area, heavy downpours were also recorded in other emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Roads were flooded, and businesses were inundated, causing disruptions in those areas as well.
Authorities Respond to the Flooding
Authorities in Dubai have mobilized emergency services to respond to the flooding. Road closures have been implemented, and residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The city's infrastructure is being assessed for any damage, and efforts are underway to clear the floodwaters and restore normalcy.
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