Breaking News: Dubai Hit by Heaviest Rainfall in 75 Years
The desert city of Dubai is reeling from unprecedented rainfall, with the United Arab Emirates experiencing its most substantial downpour in over seven decades. The torrential rains have inundated major highways, disrupted flights at Dubai International Airport, and tragically claimed at least one life.
The deluge began on Monday night and intensified throughout Tuesday, with Dubai receiving over 142mm of rainfall in just a single day. This amount is equivalent to what the city typically expects in a year and a half, highlighting the severity of the weather event. Inland areas of the UAE also recorded significant rainfall, nearing the annual average in just 24 hours.
The heavy rains have caused widespread chaos across Dubai, flooding homes, submerging vehicles on roadways, and leading to the closure of flagship shopping centers like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates. Even Dubai Metro stations were not spared, with ankle-deep water reported in some areas.
Dubai Rainfall is trending on social media platforms…
Images of lightning illuminating the sky, occasionally striking the tip of the iconic Burj Khalifa, have circulated on social media, capturing the intensity of the storm. In response, authorities have urged residents to exercise caution, avoid flooded areas, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The impact of the rainfall extends beyond Dubai, with schools closed across the UAE and remote working extended for government employees. Dubai International Airport, a vital hub for international travel, has also been affected, leading to the diversion of incoming flights.
The unprecedented nature of this weather event underscores the need for preparedness and resilience in the face of climate-related challenges. As extreme rainfall becomes more common due to human-induced climate change, communities must adapt and mitigate the impact of such events to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.
