How to Deal With Heavy Rains in Dubai

What happens when the dunes of Dubai are showered with heavy rains? Well, everything comes to a standstill. As we’re discussing heavy rains in Dubai, let’s recall an interesting fable before things get a little serious. This is the tale of King Solomon, whose kingdom was flooded with relentless rain and storms. Crops were destroyed, and citizens cried in distress. But a king is a king! Solomon used his wisdom and the magical ring God gave to settle the clouds and winds and ultimately restore the weather. Short, sweet, and victorious.

Now, back to the present. We are no Solomon. And there is no magical ring. But what persists are Dubai’s heavy rains! The unpredictable, uncontrollable downpours. Unlike Solomon, how do we mortals deal with something unpredictable? We manoeuvre! We learn to adapt and make the most of what we have. And today, that is exactly what we are going to do.

This blog discusses the simplest and most practical ways to safeguard yourself against heavy rainfall in Dubai. We make use of everything that’s easily accessible to prepare for rain in Dubai, whether you are indoors or outdoors. So, let’s make hay while the sun shines and dive in right away. 

Prepping Your Cars for Heavy Rains in Dubai

Run-down vehicles and poor visibility are the primary reasons behind rain accidents. Follow these tips to keep your vehicle ready to tackle the wet conditions: 

• • Insurance & Maintenance 

Start by getting an auto insurance policy that protects against rain and natural disasters. Then, back this up by keeping your brakes and accelerators in efficient working condition. If your car has just recovered from a previous heavy splash of rain, getting it checked and serviced before using it in full swing is advisable. 

• • Visibility Check

Everything aside, your wipers should be on their A-game when you’re driving in Dubai rain. It’s important to get your wipers, water reservoirs and all the lights checked regularly by certified mechanics or authorised service centres. Also, check your tyres to ensure proper tread depth and correct inflation. 

• Staying Safe On-Road During Dubai’s Heavy Rains

Now that you’ve checked your vehicle, it’s time to take it out on the road. Here are the best and simplest safe driving tips for Dubai rain:

• • Plan Your Drive

Before you leave, check the best possible route on the map. Its main aim is to help avoid congested roads and flooded areas. 

• • Go Slow During Heavy Rains in Dubai

Watch your speed when driving in the rain. The basic idea is to have as much control of your vehicle as possible. So, maintain a stable speed and keep driving in your lane. 

• • Avoid Sudden Movement

Quick acceleration, sudden breaks, and unindicated turns are a big no! Be steady when driving in heavy rains in Dubai. This is crucial for your safety and that of others on the road. 

• • Lights, Wipers & Ventilation

Turn on the lights to clearly see the road and be seen by other drivers. Keep the car well-ventilated to avoid fogging. Use windshield wipers to wipe off the fog and water regularly. 

Tackling Emergency Situations During Heavy Rains in Dubai

The tips above are precautions, not guarantees. Driving in heavy rain in Dubai is always risky, no matter how much care you exercise. Here is a quick-action-guide to follow when you find yourself in these situations: 

• No Visibility: Slow down your vehicle gradually and pull over in a safe corner. Keep your lights on and use hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Hydroplaning: When you feel your car sliding over water, do not panic. Ease off the accelerator and hold the steering wheel straight. Remember, it’s all about gaining your control back, slowly and steadily. 
• Vehicle Fire Due to Submersion: The first thing to do is switch off the car. Do not try to restart it, and exit the vehicle through windows as fast as possible. If windows don’t work, wait for the pressure to equalise, then open the door to escape.
• Deep Waters: Do not attempt to drive through if immersed more than 6 inches into the water. Stay in your vehicle unless it becomes unsafe. Call Dubai Police at 999 and wait for assistance.

Traffic Fines During Dubai Rains 

During storms and heavy rain in Dubai, traffic fines are more stringently imposed to promote responsible driving. While driving in Dubai rains, you can be penalized for:

• Taking pictures while driving

• Driving with hazard lights turned on

• Driving without light in fog

• Not adhering to the guidelines 

• Lane switching without indicators

• Reckless driving

• Gathering around risky areas

• Entering flooded areas

• Hindering traffic authorities during emergencies

• Disregarding speed limits

Preparing Your Homes & Properties

We’ve been on the road for a while. Now, it’s time to move indoors. Home safety during heavy rain in Dubai is important. As we discerningly prepare our vehicles for heavy rainfall, so will we do with our homes and properties. Here are some practical protections against roof leaks, indoor flooding, damaged interiors and everything rains can do to your homes:

1. Home Insurance: Get a home insurance policy that covers damage from natural disasters. This would provide financial protection against potentially costly repairs.
2. Sump Pump Installation: This is great for homeowners with basement flooding issues. Installing a sump pump will help quickly remove water from your home’s lower levels.
3. Regular Roof Inspections: Schedule annual roof inspections and get them repaired immediately. This helps prevent leaks during storms and heavy rain in Dubai. 
4. Seal Windows & Doors: Fill up the seal gaps in your windows and doors to prevent rainwater from seeping into the rooms. 
5. Document The Damage: Document any damage caused during the rain. Compile a foolproof report that can be submitted while claiming the insurance. 

Indoor Safety Tips 

You are lucky if you find yourself inside your house during the rain. Not so much if you get stuck in school, office or anywhere else. Wherever you might be, follow these simple safety tips: 

1. Stay Away from Windows: Stay clear of windows to avoid the risk of damage from glass shattering due to strong winds or lightning strikes.
2. Open That Weather App: This is the time to use that weather app on your phone. Be sure to continuously monitor the weather forecasts and plan your every move accordingly.
3. No Unnecessary Going Out: The best tip for home safety during rain is not to go out unnecessarily. There will be enough fresh breeze to enjoy later, but now’s not the time to adore the weather.
4.  Unplug Electrical Devices: Avoid wall sockets to reduce the risk of electric shock. Unplug all non-essential devices, especially if you notice flooding or the building is struck by lightning.
5. Have Your Emergency Kit Ready: At home, school, or office, keep an emergency kit ready with essentials like flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, water, and snacks.

Emergency Numbers

We’ve curated a list of emergency numbers in Dubai for flood safety. These quick dials will get you in touch with needed help in no time:

• 999 – Police Helpline for Emergency Cases 
•  901- Police Helpline for Non-Emergency Cases
• 998 – UAE Ambulance Services
• 800900 – UAE Municipality Services
• 991 – UAE Electricity and Water Authority Dpt
• 8009090- Roads and Transport Authority UAE
• 997- Civil Defense UAE

Safe, Even Without Solomon! 

As we conclude this Dubai rain safety guide, let’s recall the recurring nature of heavy rains in Dubai. It happened in 2016, 2020 and now again in 2024. The simple tips discussed above can help gain some form of control and anchor in these difficult situations. Remember, it’s not about overpowering the heavy rains and conquering them. It’s about dodging their impact as best as possible so they pass by with minimal impact. These safety tips let you do just that and help you be your own Solomon against Dubai’s heavy deluge.

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