Dubai - United Arab Emirates - April 18, 2024

The flood-hit United Arab Emirates is on a path back to normality after a record-breaking rainstorm triggered floods that had inundated roads, buildings and disrupted public transportation services.

The country typically known for its arid desert climate on Tuesday saw an average year's worth of precipitation in a single day, marking the highest recorded rainfall in the last 75 years since climate records started in 1949.

Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, cancelled 884 flights between Tuesday and Wednesday due to the significant weather event, local media reported.

Heavy downpours also flooded major roads, residential areas, shopping centers and hotels, with a large number of vehicles left stranded and damaged.

Municipal authorities in Dubai have stepped up emergency rescue and post-disaster recovery.

The Ministry of Interior announced on Wednesday night that people's life is gradually getting back on track as the rainfall came to an end.

Buses, taxis and tram services in Dubai have resumed normal operation on Thursday, with some subway lines still closed. Public schools across the city will extend remote learning and government employees will continue to work from home until the end of the week.

SHOTLIST

Dubai, UAE - April 18, 2024
1. Various of flooded roads, trapped vehicles, residents moving vehicles;
2. Flood water being drained away;
3. Traffic on road;
4. Various of water-logged roads, traffic, police officers guiding traffic.

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