Heavy Rain Causes Flooding in Dubai, Affecting Roads, Homes, and Shopping Centers Following Major Storm
On April 16, the city of Dubai, the financial hub of the Middle East, was paralyzed by torrential rain that led to widespread flooding across the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Data indicated that nearly 100 mm of rain fell in Dubai within just 12 hours. According to United Nations statistics, this amount is equivalent to the annual rainfall in Dubai.
The unexpected downpour has nearly completely immobilized the city, submerging it under water. At Dubai International Airport, operations were halted for half an hour and faced multiple interruptions due to flooding.
Video footage shows unprecedented flooding in Dubai. (Source: X).
Numerous videos circulating on social media platform X depict the runway at Dubai International Airport completely submerged. An aircraft resembled a seaplane gliding across the water while taxiing on the runways.
Scene at Dubai International Airport.
Meanwhile, the rapid and intense rainfall caused water levels to rise quickly, turning roads into rivers and submerging many streets. Some video clips showing luxury cars floating or being inundated by water have attracted considerable attention.
Streets of Dubai submerged in water. (Source: X).
Many households in Dubai and other affected areas reported leaks in their roofs, doors, and windows. Schools and businesses across the UAE temporarily closed and allowed remote work until the flooding situation is resolved.
Dubai is a city in the United Arab Emirates known for being one of the hottest and driest regions in the world, with rare rainfall. Due to the low annual rainfall, the infrastructure here is not equipped to handle heavy rain and flooding. Currently, it is still impossible to estimate the damage caused by the flooding, but it has certainly had a significant impact on this wealthy city.
Images showing the severe flooding in Dubai.
