Record Floods Hit Dubai After Up to 10 Inches of Rain
Unprecedented Downpours Cause Widespread Disruption
Rainfall Totals Shatter Records
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (April 16, 2024) – Torrential rains have battered Dubai, submerging streets, stranding vehicles, and causing widespread disruption. The deluge, which began on Tuesday, has resulted in record-breaking rainfall, surpassing the previous record set in 1949.
According to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), up to 10 inches of rain fell in some areas of Dubai, making it the city's wettest day in at least 75 years. The equivalent of a full year's worth of rainfall was dumped on Dubai in just a matter of hours.
Airport and City Operations Impacted
The relentless downpours have significantly disrupted transportation and city operations. Dubai International Airport, one of the world's busiest, was forced to suspend flights for several hours due to flooded runways and poor visibility. The airport has since resumed operations, but delays and cancellations are still affecting travel.
Roads across the city have also been inundated, making it difficult for residents to travel. Several major highways have been closed, and traffic congestion is severe. The Dubai Police have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay indoors if possible.
Celebrities and Residents Share Struggles
The flooding has also affected celebrities visiting Dubai. TOWIE (The Only Way is Essex) stars Amy Childs and Sam Faiers were stranded in the city due to the heavy rains. Childs shared a video on Instagram, showing the flooded streets and exclaiming, "We're stuck!"
Other residents have also taken to social media to share their experiences, posting photos and videos of the flooding. Many have expressed concern about the damage to infrastructure and the safety of those living in affected areas.
Emergency Services Respond
Emergency services are working tirelessly to respond to the flooding and assist those in need. The Dubai Civil Defense has deployed teams to pump water from flooded areas and rescue stranded individuals.
Residents are advised to follow safety guidelines and stay away from flooded areas. The NCM has warned that further thunderstorms and heavy rain are possible in the coming days.
Outlook and Impact
The long-term impact of the flooding on Dubai remains to be seen. However, the unprecedented rainfall has highlighted the city's vulnerability to extreme weather events. It is likely that authorities will review and implement measures to mitigate the effects of future flooding.
For the latest updates on the flooding and its impact, please refer to the official sources, such as the Dubai Media Office and the NCM.
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