Chaos as UAE Sees Heaviest Rainfall in 75 Years
Torrential Rains Bring Chaos to Dubai and Bahrain
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 | 8:00 AM PDT
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced unprecedented chaos on Tuesday as the country witnessed its heaviest rainfall in 75 years. Heavy rains battered parts of the Middle East, causing widespread flooding and disrupting daily life.
Dubai, the Middle East's financial hub, was particularly hard hit. Torrential rain caused severe flooding, paralyzing the city. Schools and businesses were closed, and transportation systems were severely affected.
The UAE is known for its hot and dry climate, but heavy rains have become increasingly common in recent years. Experts attribute this change to climate change, which is causing more frequent and intense weather events worldwide.
According to official figures, Dubai received over 142mm (5.59 inches) of rainfall by the end of Tuesday. This is more than half of the city's average annual precipitation, which is 947mm (37.3 inches).
The heavy rains caused extensive damage to infrastructure and property. Airport runways were submerged, and roads were washed away. Emergency services worked tirelessly to evacuate residents and provide assistance.
The floods have also raised concerns about the impact on the UAE's economy. The tourism industry, a major contributor to the country's GDP, could be severely affected by the damage caused by the rains.
The UAE government is closely monitoring the situation and providing support to those affected. Residents are urged to follow safety precautions and avoid flood-prone areas.
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