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| IMAGE SOURCE BY- CNBC |
UAE HEAVY RAINFALL: In an astonishing turn of events, the arid deserts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been transformed by torrential rains, a phenomenon rarely witnessed in this region. The recent downpour, equivalent to one and a half years' worth of rainfall, has wreaked havoc across the UAE and neighboring countries, leading to significant disruptions and unfortunate casualties. This article provides an overview of the recent rainfall and its impact on the region.
Unprecedented Rainfall in the UAE:
The UAE, particularly Dubai, experienced an unprecedented 24-hour downpour, with five inches of rain falling in a single day. Such rainfall is typically spread over one and a half years in Dubai, making this event truly exceptional. The Meteorological Department in Dubai reported that this was the most thunder and downpour recorded in 24 hours in the region.
Impact on Infrastructure and Transportation:
The heavy rains led to severe flooding across major highways in the UAE, disrupting transportation systems, including the metro train and airport operations. Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world's busiest airports, had to suspend its operations for approximately 25 minutes, resulting in numerous flight cancellations and delays. The floodwaters submerged cars, and the administration had to deploy massive pumps to drain the water from several highways.
Challenges Faced by Residents:
Residents of Dubai and neighboring areas faced numerous challenges due to the unexpected rainfall. Many buildings, including iconic skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa, were inundated with water, causing inconvenience to the occupants. People were stranded in their homes, with some resorting to boats for transportation within their neighborhoods. The administration urged residents to stay indoors, and online schooling was arranged to ensure students' safety.
Casualties and Rescue Operations:
Tragically, the heavy rains resulted in 18 fatalities in the UAE, with Oman also reporting 18 deaths, including 10 schoolchildren. In Bahrain's capital, Manama, roads were flooded, adding to the region's woes. Rescue operations were conducted to assist people trapped by floodwaters, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Conclusion:
The recent torrential rains in the UAE and neighboring countries have underscored the unpredictability of weather patterns and the importance of preparedness and infrastructure resilience. As climate change continues to influence global weather systems, regions like the UAE may experience more extreme weather events, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate risks and safeguard lives and property. Authorities and communities must collaborate to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities to cope with such unprecedented challenges effectively.