Today’s Weather in the UAE: Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms Lead to Cancellation of Several Flights

On Wednesday, the country’s National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) elevated the readiness and preparedness levels of the national system to deal with the situation. While these rains are expected to be less severe than the unprecedented downpour that hit the country last month, the public is urged to take precautions. On April 14-15, extreme rainfall battered regions of the Arabian Peninsula, with Dubai experiencing the heaviest rains on record since 1949.

Dubai-based Emirates airline announced the cancellation of several flights on Thursday due to bad weather across the UAE as movements at Dubai International Airport (DXB) were reduced. The airline has also waived rebooking charges to help stranded passengers. The Ministry of Interior recommended activating remote learning for all educational institutions on Thursday and Friday, and advised remote work systems for all government and private sectors, except for vital jobs that require presence at the workplace and those involved in response and recovery efforts.

The Ministry of Interior, in coordination with NCEMA, also decided to close all roads leading to areas prone to flash floods, water accumulations, and dams during the weather conditions. They urged the public to stay away from these areas and adhere to safety standards and guidelines, avoid mountainous, desert, and coastal areas. Moderate to heavy rain in scattered areas, accompanied by occasional lightning and thunder, and a possibility of small hail has also been warned.

Some flights were disrupted on Wednesday and some events were postponed due to the inclement weather conditions. Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways said its flight from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) was diverted to Al-Ain “due to adverse weather conditions in Abu Dhabi.” In Dubai, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) announced the temporary suspension of accepting requests for the entry and departure of wooden dhows in Dubai.

Dubai Metro announced the extension of operating hours ahead of expected weather conditions, extending from 12 am to 5 am (the next day). The Emirates airline’s spokesperson was quoted by the local media as saying on Wednesday that heavy thunderstorms are forecast in Dubai on May 2. The authorities have also been advised not to sail, and avoid valley areas, torrential rains, and low-lying places.

They have been asked to exercise caution while driving vehicles and adhere to the instructions of the competent authorities.