UAE held 136 search and rescue operations in 24 hours

The United Arab Emirates National Guard’s Search and Rescue Centre, in conjunction with the Ministry of Interior and strategic partners, conducted 136 search and rescue and evacuation operations over the past 24 hours amid the flooding and heavy rains that hit the country on Tuesday.

These operations included 65 medical evacuations and 71 search and rescue operations to assist people trapped by flooded valleys, buildings and streets, as well as those stranded on the road due to vehicle breakdowns. Those rescued were safely transported to safety and those injured were immediately taken to hospitals for medical attention.

April 16 is recognised as the rainiest day in history and the entire government machinery was quickly mobilised to rescue the residents and ensure their continued safety.

254.8 mm of rain fell in the Hatm al-Shakla area of Al Ain in Abu Dhabi, which is an all-time record in the history of the United Arab Emirates. This event will certainly go down in the UAE’s climate history.

Sadly, however, a 70-year-old Emirati man died in Ras Al Khaimah on Tuesday when his car was swept away by water after entering Wadi Isfani.

The incident occurred as he attempted to drive his car through the valley, disregarding the strong water currents and rising water levels caused by the incessant rains that have been falling across the country since early Tuesday morning.

Authorities once again warned the public to avoid such areas and valleys during the dangerous rainy weather. The authorities also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased.

Source: Khaleej Times

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