Severe Weather Disrupts Flights in Dubai, Schools Closed as Citizens Urged to Stay Indoors

Severe weather conditions have wreaked havoc in Dubai, leading to significant disruptions in flights and prompting the closure of schools as citizens are advised to stay indoors. The tumultuous weather, characterized by thunder, lightning, hail, and heavy rainfall, has caused chaos across the city and surrounding emirates on 16 April and 17 April.

Dubai Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, has been particularly affected with numerous flights facing delays, diversions, and cancellations. The current status on the Dubai Aiport website reflects at least 20 cancelled flights on 16 April, with destinations including cities in India, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Manchester among others.

The adverse weather has not been limited to Dubai alone, as nearby emirates such as Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Al Ain have also been on alert due to the inclement conditions. The impact of the storm was felt in Abu Dhabi on 15 April, with reports of flooded highways, exacerbating the region’s challenges.

Images circulating on social media depict flooded roads in Dubai, where vehicles struggle to navigate through the inundated streets. Amid this chaos, airlines like Emirates have issued advisories for passengers to arrive at the airport well in advance, up to four hours before their scheduled flight.

The Dubai Road and Transport Authority took to Twitter, urging travelers departing from Dubai to allow extra time for their journey to the airport and suggesting the use of the Dubai Metro, with extended operating hours till 3 AM.

A spokesperson for Dubai Airport highlighted the severe impact of the weather disruptions, with operations being significantly hampered. A total of 21 outbound and 24 inbound flights were cancelled, while a few others had to be diverted to neighboring airports to manage the situation.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority issued precautionary guidelines, advising measures to mitigate the effects of heavy rain and hailstorms, including parking vehicles in safe, distant, and elevated locations to prevent damage.