Rain, thunderstorms return to UAE; several flights canceled
What's the story
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is once again facing severe weather conditions, with heavy rains and thunderstorms causing significant disruption to international flights. This comes just two weeks after similar storms brought Dubai to a standstill. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has increased the readiness levels of the national system in response to the situation. Citizens are being urged to exercise caution due to potential risks associated with these weather disturbances.
Travel disruptions
Flight cancellations and delays at Dubai International Airport
Emirates, a leading airline based in Dubai, confirmed the cancellation of several flights on Thursday due to the adverse weather conditions across the UAE. This has resulted in reduced operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB). "Customers arriving or departing from Dubai airport on May 2 can expect some delays as flights are rescheduled," Emirates announced. The canceled flights included those between Dubai and various international destinations such as Istanbul, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Cairo, Amman, and Singapore.
Passenger support
Emirates assists passengers, waives rebooking fees
In response to the flight cancellations, Emirates has taken steps to assist affected passengers. The airline has waived rebooking fees for those impacted by the weather-related disruptions. This move comes as part of their efforts to mitigate the inconvenience caused by the rescheduling and cancellation of flights. The decision is expected to provide some relief to passengers who had planned journeys on Thursday between Dubai and various international destinations.
Precautionary measures
Remote learning and work systems implemented amidst storms
In anticipation of the adverse weather conditions, the Ministry of Interior has recommended implementing remote learning for all educational institutions on Thursday and Friday. This decisionw as collectively made by NCEMA, federal authorities, local emergency management teams, the Ministry of Education, and the Emirates Schools Establishment. Additionally, remote work systems were suggested for all government and private sectors on these days. Exceptions were made for essential jobs requiring physical presence at workplaces and those involved in response and recovery efforts.
Safety alerts
Warnings issued for areas prone to weather-related risks
Separately, roads leading to areas susceptible to flash floods, water accumulation, and dams were closed due to the weather conditions. Citizens were advised to avoid these areas and adhere to safety standards and guidelines, particularly avoiding mountainous, desert, and coastal regions. Warnings were issued for moderate to heavy rain in scattered areas, accompanied by occasional lightning and thunder, with a possibility of small hail in the western regions, on the coasts, and in some eastern areas.
Operational changes
Flight diversions and temporary halts amidst inclement weather
On Wednesday, some flights were disrupted due to the inclement weather conditions. Etihad Airways' flight (EY197) from Mumbai to Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) was diverted to Al-Ain "due to adverse weather conditions in Abu Dhabi." The flight eventually landed around 7:30pm. In Dubai, the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) temporarily halted accepting requests for the entry and departure of wooden dhows due to safety reasons.