Heavy rainfall hits Dubai, promptiong safety advisories for local residents

• Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms transform Dubai streets into waterlogged canals
• Dubai Police and UAE's National Center of Meteorology issue alerts, urging public caution
• UAE government advises private sector to implement flexible working arrangements due to anticipated continued rainfall

In an unusual weather event, Dubai experienced heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on Thursday morning, transforming its typically serene streets into waterlogged canals. At 6:30 AM, Dubai Police and the UAE's National Center of Meteorology issued alerts, urging the public to avoid beaches and areas prone to flash floods.

The adverse weather conditions disrupted transportation networks, leading to road traffic and flight operation disturbances across the Emirates. Responding promptly, the Dubai Police regulated traffic to maintain order amid the challenging circumstances caused by the thunderstorms. Visuals of the flooded streets circulated on social media, depicting the intensity of the rainfall in various parts of Dubai.

 Residents shared images and videos on social media platforms, highlighting the impact of the heavy rainfall. The Dubai Municipality activated a preparedness plan to address waterlogging, employing drainage systems to mitigate the consequences of the weather. In light of the ongoing rains, the UAE government urged the private sector to implement flexible working arrangements on Friday to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. This proactive measure aimed to navigate the expected challenging weather conditions. As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents are advised to stay indoors and exercise caution.

The conditions after heavy rain in Dubai, UAE ???????? | 17 November 2023 | #floods #flooding #Dubai #UAE pic.twitter.com/LKwy6lVCAl

— Disaster Tracker (@DisasterTrackHQ) November 17, 2023

⛔ The rain floods the entire streets and roads of #Dubai due to the lack of rain drainage drains and causes the state many losses, including on a financial level, estimated at about one billion dirhams so far at the largest estimate according to the trader.#Gaza#Israel pic.twitter.com/Qjr53DgKwj

— أحمد محمد سعيد - ابن العرب (@sonthearab) November 17, 2023