NEW DELHI: Heavy thunderstorms struck the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, pouring "over a year and a half's worth of rain" on Dubai within hours, causing flooding on highways and the international airport. In Oman, heavy flooding claimed 18 lives with some still missing, while the sultanate braced for the storm.
Starting late Monday, rain soaked Dubai's sands and roads with about 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) of rain, as per data from Dubai International Airport. By 9 am Tuesday, storms intensified, bringing more rain and hail to the city.
By Tuesday's end, Dubai had received over 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rain in 24 hours.
Police and emergency responders navigated flooded Dubai streets with emergency lights illuminating the dark roads. Lightning occasionally struck the tip of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. The city's driverless Metro faced disruptions and flooded stations.
Amidst the chaos and devastation, individuals turned to social media to share their experiences.
One user posted a video capturing people finding moments of levity amidst the storm-ravaged streets of Dubai, remarking, "There is massive storm in Dubai and people are enjoying..."
Another user wrote, 'Dubai weather decided to play dress-up as Mumbai today. Even the camels are confused. More like Doobai'
One more user, Dr MJ Augustine Vinod, posted a video on X and wrote, 'When life gives you lemon Make a lemonade'
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