A deep low-pressure system, referred to by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) as the 'Al Bashayer' system, has brought torrential rain, thunderstorms, and hail to several parts of the UAE. While the rain has provided a respite from the heat, it has turned tragic in Ras Al Khaimah and caused widespread disruption in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Tragedy in Ras Al Khaimah
The unstable weather claimed the life of a 27-year-old Indian expat, Salman Fariz, in Ras Al Khaimah. A native of Malappuram, Kerala, Fariz was reportedly working as a delivery boy. According to local reports, he had sought shelter near a building under construction to escape the downpour when a wall collapsed due to strong winds and heavy rain. Authorities have once again urged residents to avoid construction sites and valleys during such extreme conditions.
Dubai Activates 24/7 Emergency Response
In response to waterlogging in several low-lying areas, Dubai Municipality has activated a full-scale, 24/7 emergency response system. Specialized teams are working around the clock to clear drainage inlets and manage water levels in temporary collection lakes.
Key Safety Measures Taken:
- Work From Home (WFH): The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) urged private sector companies to implement remote work for Friday, Dec 19, and through the weekend where possible.
- Travel Advisory: Dubai Police issued mobile alerts advising residents to stay indoors and avoid "non-essential travel," particularly to mountainous areas and beaches.
- Closures: Public parks and beaches in Sharjah, Ajman, and Dubai were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure.
Flight Disruptions: IndiGo & Emirates Issue Alerts
The aviation sector has been significantly impacted. IndiGo issued a travel advisory warning passengers of intermittent disruptions, delays, and potential cancellations across the UAE.
- IndiGo’s Advice: Passengers are urged to check their flight status online before heading to the airport and to allow extra travel time due to waterlogged roads.
- Dubai Airports (DXB): While the airport remains operational, travelers are encouraged to use the Dubai Metro to reach terminals, as road traffic on major highways like E11 has been slowed by the weather.
NCM Forecast: Rain to Continue Till Dec 21
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) predicts that the unstable weather will persist through the weekend:
