Dubai Mosques Inspected Following Unprecedented Weather Fluctuations

Ahmed Al Muhairi, the Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, conducted inspections of mosques across the emirate following unprecedented weather fluctuations. The inspections aimed to ensure the readiness of mosques for Friday prayers and oversee maintenance work on damaged mosques.

The heavy rainfall in the UAE caused flooding in various areas, including Dubai, leading to the closure of schools until next week. Authorities are working to assess the condition of infrastructure and limit the damage caused by the floods, which claimed the life of at least one person. The flooding has sparked speculation about the impact of cloud seeding efforts, but experts say the storm systems were forecast in advance and that climate change is responsible for more intense and frequent extreme weather events.

The heavy rains and flooding, described as the heaviest in 75 years, have caused major disruptions at Dubai International Airport, with thousands of flights canceled or delayed. The airport and authorities are working to restore normalcy and provide support to affected travelers.

Why this matters: The unprecedented weather fluctuations and resulting damage to infrastructure in Dubai highlight the increasing impact of climate change on the region. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, it underscores the need for cities to adapt and build resilience to protect their residents and critical infrastructure.

In a statement, Ahmed Al Muhairi emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and functionality of mosques for worshippers. "Our priority is to make sure that all mosques are ready for Friday prayers and that any damage caused by the recent weather events is promptly addressed," he said. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department continues to work closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to affected mosques and communities.

Key Takeaways

• Dubai inspected mosques after heavy rainfall caused flooding and damage.
• Flooding led to school closures and disruptions at Dubai International Airport.
• Experts attribute the intense weather to climate change, not cloud seeding.
• Authorities are working to assess infrastructure damage and restore normalcy.
• The events underscore the need for cities to adapt and build resilience.