Dubai: Today, the United Arab Emirates experienced heavy rains and thunderstorms, prompting the cancellation of several international flights. This occurrence comes just two weeks after Dubai endured unprecedented storms that caused significant disruption.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) heightened the country’s readiness and preparedness levels on Wednesday to address the situation effectively.
Although these rains are anticipated to be less severe compared to the previous month’s unprecedented downpour, the public is urged to take necessary precautions.
Between April 14-15, extreme rainfall affected various regions of the Arabian Peninsula, with Dubai witnessing its heaviest rains since 1949.
Emirates airline, headquartered in Dubai, announced the cancellation of multiple flights on Thursday due to adverse weather conditions across the UAE, resulting in reduced operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Emirates stated in a released statement that customers should expect delays on May 2 as flights are rescheduled. Notably, the following flights for May 2 have been canceled: EK 123/124 (Dubai-Istanbul), EK 763/764 (Dubai-Johannesburg), EK 719/720 (Dubai-Nairobi), Ek 921/922 (Dubai-Cairo), EK 903/904 (Dubai-Amman), and EK 352/353 (Dubai-Singapore, with EK353 departing on May 3, 12:30 am UAE time). Additionally, the airline has waived rebooking charges to assist affected passengers.
Considering the anticipated weather conditions, the Ministry of Interior, in coordination with NCEMA, recommended activating remote learning for all educational institutions on Thursday and Friday. Decisions regarding this recommendation will be made by federal-level authorities and officials of local emergency management teams, in coordination with the Ministry of Education and the Emirates Schools Establishment.
As heavy winds and light rains affected major cities, residents were advised to utilize remote work systems on Thursday and Friday, except for essential jobs requiring physical presence and those involved in response and recovery efforts. Roads leading to flood-prone areas were closed as a precautionary measure.
Residents were urged to avoid areas prone to flash floods and adhere to safety guidelines. The weather forecast also warned of scattered moderate to heavy rain accompanied by lightning, thunder, and the possibility of small hail, particularly in western regions, coastal areas, and some eastern regions.
Flight disruptions and event postponements occurred on Wednesday due to adverse weather conditions. Etihad Airways reported the diversion of its Mumbai to Abu Dhabi flight (EY197) to Al-Ain due to unfavorable weather in Abu Dhabi.
In Dubai, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) temporarily suspended accepting requests for the entry and departure of wooden dhows. Sailors were advised against sailing during this period for safety reasons.
Ahead of the expected weather conditions, Dubai Metro extended its operating hours from midnight to 5 am the following day, albeit with a reduced number of stops.
Authorities advised against sailing and urged caution in valley areas, torrential rains, and low-lying regions. Drivers were cautioned to adhere to instructions from competent authorities and exercise caution on the roads.
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