Dubai, known for its arid climate, has been engulfed by heavy rainfall and hailstorms, leading to widespread flooding across the city.
The unusual weather patterns have prompted government authorities to take swift action, urging employees to work from home and continue distance learning in schools until the situation stabilizes.
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued red and amber alerts, signalling the persistence of wet weather and cautioning residents to stay vigilant.
Hail has been reported in various parts of Abu Dhabi, adding to the astonishment of UAE residents who are accustomed to the region’s typically dry conditions.
According to reports from Khaleej Times and Gulf News, heavy rainfall has been observed in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
The downpour has been so intense that streams of rainwater formed in valleys, exacerbating flood-like situations in several areas.
In Dubai, scenes of cars navigating through flooded roads and others stranded in standing water have become commonplace.
Drainage systems have struggled to cope with the deluge, leaving residents grappling with the aftermath of the sudden weather onslaught.
The NCM attributes this period of unstable weather to a combination of factors, including an upper air depression, a cold air mass, and a westerly air current carrying varying amounts of clouds from the West.
The result has been thunderous mornings with lightning streaking across the sky, catching many off guard.
As road and public service departments issue safety advisories for motorists, concerns about the impact of the weather on infrastructure and transportation continue to mount.
Even the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest man-made structure, fell victim to a lightning strike during the storm.
Amidst the chaos, preparations are underway for a significant diplomatic visit. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in the UAE on February 13 for a two-day visit, marking his seventh trip to the country since 2015.
During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the BAPS temple, the first traditional Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, and address the Indian community at an event in Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi.
The construction of the BAPS Mandir on 27 acres of land generously provided by the UAE leadership symbolizes the strong cultural ties between India and the UAE.
However, the visit comes when both nations grapple with the challenges posed by the unexpected weather conditions.
As Dubai and the rest of the UAE brace for continued wet weather, residents remain vigilant, hoping for a swift return to normalcy amidst the unprecedented rainfall that has engulfed the region.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members