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- April 17, 2024
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Torrential Rains in UAE Prompt Significant Operational Challenges at Dubai’s Major Airport Amid Historic Weather Event
Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Following an unprecedented deluge that inundated Dubai International Airport, disrupting operations at the world’s busiest airfield for international travel, the United Arab Emirates is now grappling with the aftermath of the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the region. The state-run WAM news agency has labeled Tuesday’s rain as “a historic weather event,” surpassing records dating back to 1949.
The rainfall, which began late Monday, amounted to approximately 0.79 inches according to meteorological data from Dubai International Airport. However, the situation escalated dramatically on Tuesday, with storms intensifying around 9 a.m. local time and persisting throughout the day, unleashing more rain and hail on the city.
Flooding impacts Dubai International Airport
By the end of Tuesday, over 5.59 inches of rainfall had saturated Dubai within a span of 24 hours, far exceeding the average annual precipitation of 3.73 inches at Dubai International Airport, a crucial hub for the long-haul carrier Emirates.
The repercussions were felt acutely at the airport, where standing water encroached on taxiways and arrivals were temporarily suspended Tuesday night. Passengers encountered difficulties reaching terminals as surrounding roads were submerged under floodwater.
The airport management, through a series of social media updates, communicated a temporary cessation of all operations for approximately 25 minutes on Tuesday afternoon. Subsequently, they announced the diversion of all incoming flights until weather conditions improved. As of late Wednesday morning, both the airport authorities and Emirates, the flagship carrier, continued to advise travelers against unnecessary visits to the airport, with flight check-in services remaining suspended.
In a tweet, the airport underscored ongoing delays and diversions, urging passengers to directly verify their flight statuses with their respective airlines. Despite the challenging circumstances, the airport emphasized its diligent efforts to restore operations promptly.
Describing the scene as “absolute carnage,” a couple, speaking anonymously to The Associated Press due to the country’s stringent laws against critical speech, depicted a chaotic situation at the airport. They highlighted the scarcity of taxis and observed individuals resorting to makeshift accommodations within the airport premises and even in the Metro station.
Their own journey home, spanning approximately 18 miles, was thwarted by floodwater on the road. Ultimately, with assistance from a bystander, they navigated past a highway barrier with their carry-on luggage, including bottles of gin purchased from a duty-free store.
