Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) led to severe flooding, resulting in the disastrous deaths of 3 people. The incident occurred this week, as the UAE experienced record-setting rainfall. This unusual weather event is uncommon in the region, known for its arid desert climate.
According to officials from the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers, two women lost their lives after suffocating inside a vehicle during the flooding. Additionally, a man tragically died when his vehicle fell into a sinkhole caused by the heavy rains.
While the exact number of deaths from the storm remains unknown, UAE authorities have yet to release comprehensive information on the matter. The unprecedented rainfall disrupted the usual tranquility of the seven sheikhdoms that make up the UAE.
Dubai, one of the affected areas, experienced over 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rainfall within a24-hour period, significantly surpassing its average yearly rainfall of 94.7 millimeters (3.73 inches) at Dubai International Airport. Other regions in the country also faced considerable precipitation.
Dubai International Airport, renowned as the world’s busiest for international travel, experienced disruptions. However, airport officials expressed hopes of returning to normal operations within 24 hours, aiming to mitigate the impact of the storm on travel schedules.
Meanwhile, major airlines operating in the UAE, such as Emirates and FlyDubai, faced challenges in resuming regular flight operations due to the weather-related disruptions. Emirates announced the temporary halt of local check-in services until early Saturday to facilitate the recovery of operations affected by the recent bad weather.
The effects of the heavy rains were not limited to the UAE, as neighboring Oman also experienced intense flooding in recent days. Authorities in Oman reported a death toll of at least 21 individuals as a result of the storms, underscoring the widespread impact of the inclement weather across the region.
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