Planes Taxi on Flooded Runways in Dubai
The United Arab Emirates faced a deluge of torrential rainfall leading to flash floods starting late Monday. Shocking videos emerged showing planes navigating through flooded runways at Dubai International Airport.
Cloud Seeding Controversy
The heavy rainfall, amounting to over half a foot in just 24 hours, has disrupted air travel and daily life. Speculations arose that cloud seeding, a method to stimulate rain, may have exacerbated the flooding situation.
Tragic Consequences
The extreme weather conditions resulted in one reported fatality, with a 70-year-old man losing his life in Ras al-Khaimah due to floodwaters. The UAE wasn’t the only country affected, as Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia also battled floods.
Airport Chaos
Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s most luxurious airports, witnessed diverted flights and halted services due to the flash floods. Unverified social media clips displayed airplanes wading through waterlogged tarmacs.
Cloud Seeding and Rainfall
Cloud seeding, a controversial method to induce rain, has been linked to the heavy downpour in the UAE this week. While some believe it to be responsible for the excessive rainfall, experts are divided on its effectiveness and potential side effects.
Impact on Daily Life
The UAE government labeled the rains as “good” despite the chaos caused, citing a need for increased rainfall to combat rising heat-related illnesses. With schools shut and employees working remotely, the aftermath of the floods continues to disrupt daily life in the region.