Dubai hit by rare storms, dozens of flights canceled

Due to unusual severe weather, Dubai International Airport has had to divert many incoming flights. In addition, departing flights were canceled. Torrential rain caused several floods in the economic center of the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai is one of the busiest airports in the world. The stormy weather is rare in the desert state. According to media, as much rain fell in a short time as normally falls in a year.

The torrential rain led to chaos. Images on social media show large shopping centers, parking garages, roads and a metro station under water. Some buildings also suffer from power outages. Schools remained closed.

In neighboring Oman, at least eighteen people have died in recent days due to heavy flooding.