People cross a submerged road after heavy rain in the United Arab Emirates on April 16, 2024.
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One of the world’s busiest airports has temporarily halted operations as the United Arab Emirates recorded its heaviest rainfall on record.
The downpour prompted flight cancellations and delays at Dubai International Airport, with travelers stranded for hours both in the terminal and on the tarmac, which appeared to be underwater in footage seen by CNBC. The airport said so roadblocks and flooding they prevented many passengers from reaching the airport for departing flights.
Fly Dubai, an airline owned by the Dubai government, suspended all flights from the UAE hub until 10am local time on April 17, citing extreme weather conditions.
The National Center of Meteorology confirmed the highest level of rainfall in the country in the eastern emirate of Al Ain, which it reached 254.8 mm (10 in) in less than 24 hours. The UAE recorded over 100mm of rainfall, a 75-year high since the UAE began recording rainfall.
The government has issued a red warning, closing offices, schools and banks across the country. The National Authority for Emergency Crises and Disasters warned Residents to stay at home and park vehicles on high ground, away from flood-prone areas. He also advised people to take preventive measures to avoid property damage due to heavy rain and hailstorm.
Vehicles on roads flooded due to heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on April 16, 2024.
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The main road connecting Dubai to the capital, Abu Dhabi, remained blocked due to flooding. Dubai’s metro and mall were flooded and cars were seen floating along streets in many parts of the country in videos seen by CNBC.
Storms have hit other parts of the Middle East, with at least 18 deaths in Oman due to flooding.