During twelve hours on Tuesday, more than 100 millimeters of rain fell over Dubai, which is roughly equivalent to the amount of rain the United Arab Emirates normally receives in a year.
Almost all departures from Dubai International Airport are said to be delayed due to the floods.
– It is total chaos, no information, nothing, says a traveler who waited for twelve hours to AFP.
Image 1 of 2 People wade across a flooded road in Dubai. Photo: Christopher Pike/AP Image 2 of 2 Abandoned car in the bodies of water in Dubai. Photo: Christopher Pike/AP
The largest airline, Emirates, on Wednesday closed all its check-in counters. Air traffic resumed on Thursday morning, but then with delays as a result.
Not since the measurements started In 1949, Dubai experienced a similar rain.
– It was one of the worst situations I have ever experienced, says a resident, whose 15-minute commute turned into a 12-hour journey, to The Guardian.
In the neighboring country of Oman, at least 20 people have died in the storm that paralyzed the country, including ten school children. Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are also affected.
Also in Afghanistan and Pakistan, floods this week have caused major problems. Over 100 people have died. Heavy downpours are unusual there this time of year. The rainy season normally starts in June and lasts until September.
