As Floodwaters Recede, Dubai Braces for More Bad Weather
Severe flooding has disrupted life in Dubai and most of the Gulf with more peril forecast.
Thunderstorms and torrential downpours in the desert? Yes, that is the shocking reality as record rains on Monday through Wednesday (April 15-17) have seriously impacted Dubai’s roads. Also in for a battering was the city's international airport, which is one of the busiest in the world. Due to it submerged runways, flights have either been cancelled or diverted. Meanwhile, on highways, arterial roads and smaller streets, many drivers and passengers were forced to abandon their vehicles and wade through several feet of water to safety.
The amount of rain that Dubai usually sees in a year and a half came crashing down in the space of just a few hours. Indeed, it’s the worst assault from the UAE’s skies in 75 years. This caused flash floods in most of the city with even Dubai’s superior infrastructure finding it hard to cope with the sudden inundation. However, with the skies clearing and sunshine emerging, the waters in Dubai are receding – as of Thursday, April 18, 2024.
However, the city is still not suitable for regular commuting in vehicles. The local authorities have issued advisories encouraging most government and private employees to work from home. But the Met department has indicated that there is more bad weather in store - with light showers expected over the coming weekend, especially on Monday and Tuesday i.e. 22nd and 23rd April 2024. A drop in tempreature is also expected along the coastal areas.
Also, experts have dispelled rumours of “cloud seeding” where chemical particles are diffused into the atmosphere to bring on rainfall. Instead, many weather-monitoring personnel have attributed the calamity to Climate Change. It’s a similar situation across most of the Gulf presently. But no amount of stagnating water can dampen the spirits of Dubai’s municipality. Clean up operations have begun in right earnest. Hopefully, their efforts will not go in vain and the rain gods will accord Dubai's residents with some much needed mercy.
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