The United Arab Emirates experienced its most significant rainfall in modern history over the past 24 hours, marking a record since climatic data recording began in 1949, according to Emirates News Agency WAM.
Dubai’s sky turns green amid torrential rainfall and flooding
Rain is unusual in the UAE where growing up there were prayers for it
Over 4.75 inches of rainfall was witnessed today, that’s more than the annual average
— Faseeh Mangi (@FaseehMangi) April 16, 2024
The National Center of Meteorology confirmed this unprecedented rainfall event, noting its exceptional nature in the UAE’s climatic history, with more rain expected in the coming hours.
As per NCM reports, the highest rainfall amount was recorded in the Khutum Al Shakla area in Al Ain, reaching 254.8 mm (10 inches) in less than 24 hours.
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This substantial rainfall is set to contribute to increasing the annual average rainfall in the UAE and enhancing groundwater reserves across the country, WAM reported.
In response to the weather conditions, Dubai International Airport (DXB), a major global hub, announced the diversion of arriving flights on Tuesday evening until weather conditions improve, while maintaining departures.
UAE experiences heaviest rainfall in 75 years, weather bureau says 🌧️ pic.twitter.com/3Uc5GA7czW
— Neha Gurung (@nehaGurung1692) April 17, 2024
FlyDubai also announced the suspension of all its flights departing from Dubai until Wednesday morning, with immediate cancellation of Tuesday evening flights until 10:00 (Dubai local time) on 17 April.
In light of the weather situation, schools across the UAE were closed, with plans for continued closure on Wednesday due to forecasted storms. Additionally, Dubai’s government extended remote working for its employees into Wednesday.
The Asian Champions League football semi-final between the UAE’s Al Ain and Saudi side Al Hilal, originally scheduled to be hosted in Al Ain, was postponed for 24 hours due to the adverse weather conditions.
The storms affecting the UAE, Bahrain, and parts of Qatar followed their impact on Oman, where they caused deadly floods and stranded dozens.
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