Torrential rains in the United Arab Emirates caused flight cancellations, school closures, and traffic disruptions. The government had conducted cloud seeding operations before the storms, but meteorologists stated it likely did not significantly impact the rainfall. The UAE has been conducting cloud seeding operations since 2002 to address water security concerns, although the lack of proper drainage in some areas can lead to flooding. The National Center of Meteorology dispatched seeding planes to take advantage of convective cloud formations, using chemicals and tiny particles to induce more rain from clouds.
Dubai’s media office referred to the heavy rain as “rains of goodness,” despite flooded homes and overflowing swimming pools. The storms followed earlier heavy rains this year, with the seeding planes flying seven missions to induce rainfall. The downpours forced Dubai International Airport to suspend operations temporarily, causing disruptions that continued into the next day. Emirates, a major airline, suspended passenger check-ins due to the severe weather. The UAE government issued warnings and advised people to stay at home unless absolutely necessary, extending remote working for federal employees.
Social media was abuzz with updates on the aftermath of the weather, with videos showing cars being swept off roads and infrastructure damage. Residents had to deal with flooded apartments, underground car parks, and power outages in some buildings. Roads in Abu Dhabi were also affected by the heavy rains. In neighboring Oman, at least 18 people died as a result of the heavy rains and flooding in recent days. The UAE government’s cloud seeding operations aim to address water security concerns in the region, although proper drainage remains a challenge in some areas.
Global warming poses a threat of increased heat-related deaths in the UAE, making the efforts to induce rainfall through cloud seeding even more important. The government’s National Center of Meteorology conducts seeding operations when suitable clouds are present over the UAE, with chemicals and tiny particles used to coax more rain from the clouds. Despite the disruptions and damage caused by the storms, the government and residents have taken to social media to share updates and support each other in dealing with the aftermath. The heavy rains have highlighted the importance of proper infrastructure and emergency preparedness in the face of extreme weather events like these.
