Heavy Rains Cause Flooding in UAE and Oman: 18 Lives Lost
Heavy rains caused significant flooding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and neighboring Oman, resulting in at least 18 deaths in Oman and disruptions in Dubai.
The rains began overnight and caused major flooding on highways, leaving vehicles abandoned and disrupting flights at Dubai International Airport.
Over 120 millimeters (4.75 inches) of rainfall hit Dubai, surpassing the typical annual average for the desert nation.
The flooding in Oman also left people missing.
Heavy rains flooded the streets of the UAE, causing schools to close and government employees to work from home.
Some workers braved the conditions but encountered unexpectedly deep water, stalling their vehicles.
The storm also affected neighboring Oman, resulting in 18 deaths from flooding.
Emergency personnel and tanker trucks were deployed to remove the water from the streets and highways.
The flooding was accompanied by lightning storms, with the Burj Khalifa being a notable target.
In the UAE, an arid country in the Arabian Peninsula, unexpected heavy rain caused flooding in some homes.
Despite being uncommon, rain occurs during the winter months in the UAE.
Due to the infrequent rainfall, many roads and areas lack proper drainage, leading to flooding.
Additionally, rainfall was reported in Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.