Dubai, the bustling metropolis known for its desert landscape, was brought to a standstill as unprecedented heavy rain and thunderstorms caused widespread flooding across the city. The unexpected deluge resulted in the cancellation of over half a hundred flights from Dubai International Airport, with operations suspended until Wednesday night.

The city recorded its highest rainfall in 75 years, with torrential downpours beginning late Monday night and intensifying throughout Tuesday. According to reports from Al Jazeera, Dubai International Airport witnessed a staggering 142 mm of rainfall within a 24-hour period, far surpassing previous records.

The impact of the storm extended beyond the airport, with entire neighborhoods submerged in water and roadways inundated, causing heavy traffic congestion. Rocks and debris were also swept along with the floodwaters, further exacerbating the situation.

Passengers arriving at the airport were greeted with scenes reminiscent of a waterway, as taxiways resembled rivers and travelers navigated through ankle-deep water to reach the terminal. Check-in services were suspended, and flight landings were halted on Tuesday night as authorities grappled with the aftermath of the flooding.

The disruption caused by the heavy rain extended beyond Dubai's borders, with neighboring Oman also experiencing severe weather conditions. At least 18 fatalities have been reported in Oman as a result of the heavy rains, underscoring the widespread impact of the extreme weather event.

As Dubai residents and authorities work to mitigate the effects of the flooding and restore normalcy to the city, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of even the most modern urban centers to the forces of nature.