Severe weather has recently gripped Dubai, bringing heavy rain, hail, and fierce thunderstorms that have disrupted daily life and air travel significantly. Amid this turbulent weather, a video showcasing an Emirates Airlines aircraft aborting its landing due to intense winds and reduced visibility has gone viral, captivating social media users across platforms. The video, shared by a user named Shekar Captain and subsequently reposted by Lovin Dubai, vividly illustrates the aircraft’s tense maneuver as it approached the runway, only to pull up suddenly to avoid a risky landing.
The storm has prompted a citywide slow down, with significant rain affecting various neighborhoods. Reports indicate that many low-lying areas experienced waterlogging, and visibility declined sharply during peak rainfall periods. As conditions worsened, airlines began to face delays and cancellations, prompting advisories for passengers to monitor their flight schedules closely.
In response to the adverse weather, Dubai Police have issued safety alerts, advising residents to remain indoors and exercise caution. Their alert emphasized the potential hazards posed by slippery roads, poor visibility, and sudden floods, urging the public to limit outdoor activities unless absolutely necessary. The police statement underscored a proactive approach to ensure public safety amid unpredictable weather conditions.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) took further action by issuing warnings for heavy rainfall expected on both Thursday and Friday, specifically targeting Dubai and Abu Dhabi as the most affected regions. Rainfall predictions indicate continued cloud formation and the likelihood of intermittent showers, with the weather impacts extending to neighboring Gulf nations such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which are also on alert.
This unexpected bout of severe weather recalls the widespread flooding experienced in the UAE in 2024, when unprecedented rainfall led to significant disruptions, especially in Dubai. While this week’s storm has not reached those extreme levels, it serves as a stark reminder of the region’s vulnerability to sudden weather changes and the importance of being prepared.
Overall, the situation illustrates the critical nature of weather forecasts in ensuring public safety and highlights the commendable actions of pilots and emergency services responding to severe conditions. As the community navigates these challenges, a collective awareness and adherence to safety are paramount.