Continuous thunder and lightning rudely awaken UAE residents as heavy rainfall pummels the region late Monday night into Tuesday morning.
The unstable weather conditions persist until Wednesday, with the National Centre of Meteorology issuing warnings of low surface pressure and the passage of two waves of unsettled weather across the country on Tuesday.
At 11:40 am, reports surfaced of a road blockage toward Al Khan Junctions in Al Majaz, Sharjah, due to water accumulation from the heavy rains that began earlier in the day. Police advise motorists to take precautionary measures and drive safely during the rain. Meanwhile, Sharjah resident Asim M expresses relief at minimal traffic while commuting from Al Nahda Sharjah to Dubai for work. He credits the government's implementation of remote learning and work-from-home policies for the smoother commute despite waterlogging in certain areas.
By 11:15 am, numerous roads in Dubai are flooded, with some vehicles breaking down on waterlogged streets. Motorists navigate through heavy rains using windshield wipers and headlights while facing challenges with fogging inside their vehicles, reducing visibility. Residents also grapple with building leaks, with reports of structural issues exacerbating the situation. French resident Christine Quartier La Tente highlights the challenges faced by residents at Damac Hills 2, emphasizing the need for constant repairs amidst heavy rainfall.
As the morning progresses, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) issues a statement warning commuters of anticipated delays and cancellations in public bus services due to the rainy weather conditions. The disruption in transportation adds to the challenges faced by residents and commuters across the UAE.
Despite the inconveniences caused by the heavy rains and associated challenges, residents and authorities are actively adapting and responding to the situation. From road blockages to building leaks, the impacts of the inclement weather are being felt throughout the region, underscoring the importance of preparedness and proactive measures in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events.