The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was hit by a deluge of heavy rain on Tuesday, marking the largest amount of rainfall the country has seen in 75 years. The seven emirates were engulfed in thunderstorms, low visibility, and thick fog, leading to road collapses, widespread waterlogging, and even the temporary shutdown of Dubai Airport.
Read: UAE Weather Update: Heavy rainfall hits all seven emirates
Long-time Filipino residents, a significant expatriate community in the UAE, described the storm as the worst they’ve encountered during their stay in the country. One resident, commenting on The Filipino Times’ social media, remarked, “We’ve had rain before, but never like this.” Another, with 30 years in the UAE, stated, “This has never happened before.”
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed the historic nature of the rainfall.
“The UAE witnessed the largest amounts of rainfall during the past 75 years,” stated the UAE media office.
The “Khatm al-Shakla” area in Al Ain recorded a staggering 254.8 mm of rainfall in less than 24 hours, setting a record in the country’s climatic history.
أعلن المركز الوطني للأرصاد أن دولة الإمارات شهدت هطول أكبر كميات أمطار خلال الأعوام الـ 75 الماضية، وأن منطقة “خطم الشكلة” بالعين شهدت هطول 254.8 ملم في أقل من 24 ساعة… لتحقق الدولة بذلك حدثاً استثنائياً يسجل في تاريخها المناخي. pic.twitter.com/Iir6ZS2Dzs
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) April 16, 2024
The NCM issued a fog and rain advisory today, with Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah placed on yellow alert due to connective clouds. Residents are advised to exercise caution when venturing outdoors. Shinas is on orange alert, indicating the likelihood of hazardous weather conditions.
#تنبيه #المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد
#Alert_#NCM pic.twitter.com/fooOXQYWIv— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 17, 2024
The UAE, known for its dry climate, is dealing with the aftermath of this unusual rainfall. Authorities are now working to address the damage and ensure public safety.
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