The United Arab Emirates witnessed an unprecedented event on Tuesday, April 16, as it experienced record-breaking rainfall, surpassing any documented precipitation in the past 24 hours since the commencement of data collection in 1949.
According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the highest rainfall was recorded in the “Khatm Al Shakla” area in Al Ain, reaching an astonishing 254 mm within less than 24 hours. This remarkable figure eclipsed previous records, including the 287.6 mm recorded at NCM’s Shuwaib station on March 9, 2016.
The torrential downpour presented numerous challenges in managing the inclement weather, but authorities and residents rallied together to ensure the safety of all individuals affected.
The NCM confirmed that the record rainfall observed within the past 24 hours until 9 pm on Tuesday, April 16, constitutes an exceptional event in the UAE’s climate history. Furthermore, forecasts suggest that larger amounts of rainfall may be recorded in the coming hours.
This extraordinary occurrence of heavy rainfall not only contributes to increasing the annual rainfall average in the UAE but also strengthens the country’s groundwater reserves. The unexpected deluge is a testament to the unpredictability of weather patterns in the region.
The unstable weather conditions, attributed to the extension of a “low surface pressure,” began impacting the country on Monday. Two waves of unstable weather further exacerbated the situation on Tuesday, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness in the face of such climatic events.
As the UAE navigates through this exceptional weather phenomenon, authorities continue to monitor developments closely and coordinate efforts to mitigate its impact on the population and infrastructure.
