Unusual floods at Dubai Airport: Flights are diverted due to “exceptional weather” that strikes the city

Tuesday’s nonstop rainstorm in Dubai upset the regular routine of the Gulf region, which is more recognized for its dry environment and intense summer heat. At Dubai Airport, the busiest international airport in the world based on passenger flow, a heavy rain resulted in severe flooding. Amidst the turmoil produced by the storm, officials had to temporarily suspend operations and reroute numerous planes due to the inundation of the tarmac at Dubai International Airport caused by the heavy rain.

Dubai Airport is closed due to floods and heavy rain.
Planes were seen taxiing over an apron that was inundated with thick standing water in a number of social media posts and videos. The strong rains and ensuing floods paralyzed the airport, which experienced an unusual suspension of arrivals on an evening when it typically sees over 100 aircraft arrivals. A representative for Dubai Airports said, “Due to the intense storm, operations were temporarily suspended for 25 minutes this afternoon, but have since recommenced, and are now in recovery mode.”

“Dubai International is temporarily diverting inbound flights scheduled to arrive this evening due to the ongoing exceptional weather event currently being experienced in the UAE… until the inclement situation improves,” the official stated.

The same scenarios are happening all throughout Dubai.
In addition to the main international airport, Tuesday’s floods caused by the equivalent of almost two years’ worth of rain in the UAE also flooded streets, shopping centers, and homes in the busy metropolis. Similar images of flooding and commotion were seen at flagship malls Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, while at least one Dubai Metro station had ankle-deep water. Due to the expectation of additional rain, schools were canceled across the United Arab Emirates and were anticipated to be closed on Wednesday.

After passing over Oman, the storms made their way to the UAE, Bahrain, and parts of Qatar, where they produced devastating floods, left hundreds of people stranded, and left at least 18 dead, including children.