As the first few rain clouds began gathering in the sky late on April 15, I went out to the balcony to get a better view. Although of late, Dubai has been experiencing a few spells of rain, the met report had predicted that April 15 and 16 would see heavy to very heavy rains.
And as always, the met team was not wrong.
Late on April 15 the rains started, and how. Even as I hastened indoors – a tad scared of the thunder and lightning, less of the rain itself- the heavens opened up. Later, the state news agency WAM, would report that it was the heaviest rainfall on record in 24 hours ‘’surpassing anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949’’.
Not surprisingly, within minutes social media platforms were inundated - with videos and pictures of water-logged areas, and of people in vehicles struggling to reach their destinations as several roads were either blocked off or diverted due to waterlogging. In this melee, scores of videos, some of them fake and many of them portraying natural calamities that happened at another part of the globe a long time ago, began circulating leaving at least some people confused and worried.
However, what failed to make it to several social media platforms and thereby to people’s phones and devices was that how despite the dark, overcast skies of the day, the spirit of the city shone bright as its people united in compassion and determination to overcome the adversity.
Even as the city witnessed the heaviest rains in 75 years, Dubai emerged as a beacon of resilience and solidarity. Despite the unexpected challenge, in a remarkable display of humanity, individuals from all walks of life stepped forward to lend a helping hand, embodying the true essence of community spirit, united in compassion and determination to overcome the adversity.
While the official machinery got busy clearing the pools of water that had collected in several areas and bringing about normalcy in affected areas, volunteers braved the rains to assist with evacuation efforts, neighbors opened their doors to those in need, Whatsapp groups helped connect with people to rush aid where required while random strangers could be seen clearing storm water drains with their bare hands, and helping the officials as best as they could to set their lives and those of their countrymen back on track.
Individuals swiftly mobilized resources to aid in relief efforts, demonstrating a collective commitment to restoring normalcy.
The outpouring of support highlighted the inherent goodness of Dubai's inhabitants. Through solidarity and resilience, the city not only weathered the storm but emerged stronger than ever before.
As the waters recede, the bonds forged amidst adversity stand as a lasting reminder of the indomitable spirit that defines Dubai and its people.
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