Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is currently experiencing significant weather disturbances due to heavy rains and thunderstorms. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued alerts for volatile weather conditions, which are expected to peak on May 2 and continue until May 3. Residents have been experiencing heavy rainfall since midnight, with Dubai reporting showers and lightning as early as 2:35 am.
Impact on Travel:
Dubai airports and airlines are advising passengers to prepare for potential travel disruptions. Travelers should expect traffic delays and are encouraged to consider the Dubai Metro as an alternative mode of transportation. Indian airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara, have issued advisories for flights to and from Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Passengers are advised to monitor their flight status closely before heading to the airport.
Flight Cancellations and Delays:
Emirates Airlines has announced the cancellation of several flights and anticipates delays for customers arriving or departing from Dubai International Airport (DXB) on May 2. The affected flights include services to and from Istanbul, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Cairo, Amman, and Singapore. Emirates has waived rebooking charges for affected passengers.
Historical Weather Event:
The current rains, while severe, are expected to be less intense than the record-breaking downpour that occurred on April 14-15, which was the heaviest rainfall in Dubai since 1949.
Precautionary Measures:
The Ministry of Interior has implemented remote learning for educational institutions and advised remote work systems for government and private sectors, excluding essential jobs. Roads leading to areas at risk of flash floods, water accumulations, and dams have been closed. The public is urged to avoid mountainous, desert, and coastal areas and to adhere to safety guidelines.
Weather Forecast:
Moderate to heavy rain, occasional lightning and thunder, and the possibility of small hail are forecasted, particularly in the western regions, coastal areas, and some eastern parts of the country. The public is advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this period of inclement weather.
