DUBAI: Heavy rains and strong winds lashed the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday, turning streets into rivers and even submerging a runway at Dubai Airport.
As torrents of rain poured down on the city, streets turned into fast-flowing rivers, and social media platforms were flooded with images and videos capturing the extent of the deluge.
At Dubai Airport, the impact of the storm was intense as water levels rose alarmingly, transforming the runway into what resembled a makeshift waterway rather than a functional airstrip. The severity of the weather forced airport authorities to temporarily suspend operations for 25 minutes, disrupting both arrivals and departures.
Dubai Airport Flooded!!
There has been rainstorm in Dubai for days… This is the current state of Dubai Airport, it is heavily flooded! #DubaiFlooding pic.twitter.com/yiqACQkXSI
— ABISOYE ALOGBA (@Bizalotime) April 17, 2024
Flydubai, a prominent airline operating out of Dubai, announced flight disruptions and cancellations in response to the adverse weather conditions, further exacerbating travel woes for passengers.
The National Center of Meteorology warned of continued thunderstorms and heavy rainfall along coastal areas, with the potential for hail in some regions. Thunderclouds were forecasted to persist moving eastward and northward until Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by lightning and thunder, before gradually dissipating.
Authorities urged caution on the roads, especially in flood-prone areas, advising against venturing near valleys or water accumulations. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization also issued a call to private companies to prioritize occupational safety measures amid the exceptional weather conditions.
