Dubai reels under the heaviest rainfall in nearly 75 years, causing widespread flooding, evacuations, and social media frenzy

Residents and tourists in Dubai faced unforeseen disaster as the city recorded its most significant rainfall in nearly three-quarters of a century. The unprecedented weather event began abruptly, submerging streets and disrupting normal life significantly.

On Monday night, the skies over Dubai opened, releasing torrential rains that continued into Tuesday, catching many by surprise. The National Centre of Meteorology had issued warnings, but the intensity of the downpour exceeded all forecasts, leading to the heaviest rainfall the region has seen since 1949. According to the WAM news agency, areas like Al Ain witnessed more than ten inches of rain in just 24 hours—more than double the annual average rainfall of Dubai.

The aftermath of the storm has been catastrophic. Floodwaters quickly overwhelmed urban infrastructure, leading to the suspension of flights and leaving vehicles stranded. Images circulating online show major streets turned into rivers, and some areas of the city resemble scenes from an apocalyptic film.

The human toll of the disaster is also mounting. Neighboring Oman reported 18 fatalities due to the flooding, and local police in Ras Al Khaimah confirmed the death of a 70-year-old man who was swept away by the floodwaters. With the situation worsening, the UAE government urged residents to work from home and ordered schools to remain closed.

Amidst the chaos, an overwhelmed couple told The Associated Press about the dire conditions, with people seeking refuge in metro stations and airports. Social media platforms have become a hub for sharing experiences and seeking help, with numerous posts depicting the severity of the situation.

Authorities and experts are now addressing the public’s concerns about the causes of such extreme weather. While some speculate that cloud-seeding operations might have contributed to the severity of the rainfall, weather experts like Sky News’ Chris England suggest that the likelihood is minimal. Instead, studies suggest that climate change could be playing a role in increasing rainfall in the region.

As Dubai grapples with the impacts of this unprecedented weather event, the focus remains on rescue and recovery efforts, with officials prioritizing the safety and well-being of affected residents. The community’s resilience is being tested as it bands together to navigate through one of the most challenging periods in its recent history.