Dubai International Airport Struggles After Heavy Rains and Floods Hit UAE and Oman
The aftermath of heavy rains and flash floods in the United Arab Emirates and neighbouring Oman continues to wreak havoc, especially at the Dubai International Airport.
On Tuesday, the storm hit the UAE, causing flooding on roads and sections of the busy airport. The impact has been devastating, with 20 people losing their lives in Oman and one person reported dead in the UAE due to the flash floods.
As a result of the inclement weather, operations at the Dubai International Airport have been severely disrupted. While some inbound flights have resumed at Terminal 1 for foreign carriers, outbound flights are still facing delays. Check-in services have opened at Terminal 3 for Emirates and flydubai flights, but long delays are expected due to a large number of travellers waiting to check in.
The head of Dubai Airport, Paul Griffiths, described the current situation as incredibly challenging, noting that such conditions have never been witnessed before in living memory.
Roads surrounding the airport are congested due to people trying to reach the airport, causing traffic gridlocks. On Wednesday, about 300 flights were canceled, and hundreds more were delayed as a result of the heavy rainfall in the UAE, which broke records with up to 259.5mm (10.2in) recorded on Tuesday.
Several stranded passengers at the airport have taken to social media to express their frustrations and urge for more information. With road closures still in place, some motorists remain trapped in vehicles or stranded on the roadside due to rising water levels.
Although there were reports of sunny spells on Thursday, authorities have cautioned that more thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds are forecasted in the region. In Oman, over 1,400 people have been evacuated to shelters, and schools and government offices have been closed.
The UAE’s president, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has ordered a review of the country’s infrastructure impacted by the severe weather to assess the damage and provide support to affected families.
Despite the challenges faced in the wake of the heavy rains and floods, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s ruler, emphasized the importance of unity and resilience in overcoming crises, highlighting the care, awareness, cohesion, and love shown by all citizens and residents during this natural climate crisis.
