A torrential rainstorm lashed the eastern region of Sharjah, prompting the evacuation of 61 families to safety. The Sharjah Housing Department announced on Wednesday that families affected by the rains in the emirate have been relocated and provided shelter in four hotels.
The 61 Emirati families included 346 individuals. Of the total families, 56 families were provided shelter in Kalba city, while three families were accommodated in the city of Dibba Al Hisn, and two families in Khor Fakkan.
Meanwhile, technical teams visited the areas and assessed the damaged homes. They inspected the extent of the damage, identified properties deemed uninhabitable or at risk of collapse, and offered assistance until arrangements for permanent housing could be made.
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The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported heavy rains in the emirate, prompting a weather alert for residents to stay vigilant. The Met Department forecasted low clouds over some eastern areas with rainfall.
Videos captured by a Khaleej Times photojournalist show overflowing wadis and submerged roads, making it difficult for motorists navigating the area. The Kalba industrial area was also flooded, and was completely deserted.
As heavy rains, hail, thunder, and lightning hit the country on Monday, more than 700 residents in the eastern region of the country were displaced, Sharjah Police said.
The inclement weather caused damage to their homes, forcing them to move out for their safety. The authority confirmed that all 707 residents were provided with temporary shelter. As unstable weather lashed the country, Sharjah Police found themselves responding to around 21,000 calls in one day.
The Sharjah Civil Defence warned residents against taking any risks by standing in or crossing the stream.
- Do not approach valley streams and torrents which might collapse
- Do not take risks of driving in a torrent
- Exercise caution as water levels may rise, potentially submerging roads and bridges. I adhere to standard safety procedures for my own protection
- Staring at flowing stream may induce dizziness and increase the risk of falling
- Allowing children to play in watershed areas/drains is dangerous
- Exercise caution, as heavy rain and water flow may impact the road’s slope