Severe flooding has impacted Dubai, causing waterlogged streets and prompting a warning from Dubai police advising residents to stay indoors. This extreme weather event is the most significant rainfall the UAE has experienced in its history, spanning 76 years. The heavy rain is forecasted to persist in Dubai and Abu Dhabi into the next day.
The police have issued a cautionary statement, urging the public to exercise vigilance due to the anticipated unstable weather conditions and recommending limiting outdoor activities until midday on Friday for safety reasons.
Although the intense rainfall has begun to subside, Ras Al Khaimah, situated north of Dubai, has also encountered flooding as depicted in a video showing torrents of muddy water flowing through Wadi Bih. Dubai Municipality continues its efforts in providing flood relief and maintaining public safety.
IndiGo Airlines has highlighted the impact of adverse weather on flights, with potential disruptions expected across the UAE due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Travellers are advised to monitor flight statuses for cancellations and delays.
Amid the weather challenges, Dubai Police and Sharjah Police have issued safety advisories, emphasizing the importance of staying safe and cautious during the severe weather conditions. Abu Dhabi City Municipality has announced the temporary closure of parks and beaches under its jurisdiction to ensure public safety.
Despite the weather-related constraints, vehicles have been navigating through flooded roads in Dubai, prompting private schools to refrain from organizing outdoor activities. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has instructed educational institutions to prioritize student safety by avoiding outdoor engagements during the inclement weather.
Abu Dhabi Police have adjusted speed limits on certain roads to enhance safety, activating a speed reduction system limiting vehicles to 100 km/hr on the Al Ain–Dubai road. An orange alert has been issued as the extent of waterlogging poses challenges in assessing the situation on streets and roads.
The Ministry of Interior has advised residents to exercise extreme caution and minimize outdoor activities unless absolutely necessary. Flight operations have been affected, with delays and cancellations reported on various routes, including Emirates flights to London Gatwick, Heathrow, and Frankfurt, as well as FlyDubai services to Warsaw and Bahrain.