UAE: Thunderstorm, heavy rainfall flood Dubai roads
What's the story
The streets of Dubai were waterlogged as heavy rain and thunderstorms battered several parts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since Thursday, per reports. The unexpected weather prompted authorities to issue advisories, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid beaches to ensure safety. Furthermore, the country's National Center of Meteorology (NCM) also issued a "yellow" and "orange" alert amid the rain and thunderstorms.
Details
How UAE government reacted to unexpected weather conditions
Amid the rainfall in the country, the UAE government urged the private sector on Thursday to implement flexible working arrangements for Friday. These proactive measures were taken to ensure the safety and well-being of employees during such unexpected, challenging weather conditions. Several visuals also surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), where Dubai's usually serene streets could be seen flooded.
Twitter Post
Visuals of waterlogged Dubai amid heavy rains
Late night thunderstorms hit United Arab Emirates resulting in flooded/waterlogged roads in Dubai
— Karnataka Weather (@Bnglrweatherman) November 17, 2023
Horrible situation in Dubai. Massive traffic jams as @DubaiAirports is not prepared for such rain. People had to walk for almost 1.5 km to reach the airport as cars can't go there.… pic.twitter.com/xranhAIlZu
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Schools in Dubai switch to online cases amid rains
As per Khaleej Times, schools in Dubai also made the switch to online classes amid the rainfall and sent out emails informing parents of the change. Besides Dubai, anticipating bad weather, authorities in the Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Ajman emirates had asked schools to shift to distance learning from Friday as well.
What Next?
UAE facing 'more than average' rainfall this autumn: NCM official
Earlier this month, the NCM told Dubai-based news outlet Gulf News that the UAE was facing "more than average" rainfall this autumn as compared to any other year. "However, this weather pattern is not unusual during this time of the year. For example, in 2013, 125 millimeters of rain was recorded in a single day," a weather department official clarified.