## Heavy Rain Wreaks Havoc in UAE and Oman
Heavy rain and flooding have caused widespread disruption across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman, leaving at least 20 people dead and causing significant damage to infrastructure.
Dubai, the UAE's financial hub, has been particularly hard hit, with torrential rain causing widespread flooding and paralyzing the city. Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international passengers, was forced to divert incoming flights and delay or cancel departures as floodwaters inundated the tarmac.
Similar scenes were witnessed across the UAE, with roads collapsing, residential areas flooded, and buildings suffering leaks. Schools were closed, and the government extended remote working for its employees.
The heavy rain also caused devastation in Oman, where flash floods claimed the lives of 18 people, including nine schoolchildren. Two people remain missing. The storms, which also brought thunder and lightning, descended on Oman after hitting parts of Qatar.
Both Oman and the UAE, which hosted the COP28 UN climate talks last year, have warned that global warming is likely to lead to more frequent and intense flooding events. Experts believe that human-caused climate change likely played a role in the recent heavy rainfall.
Authorities and communities across the affected regions are working to clear debris and assess the damage. Schools in the UAE are expected to remain closed on Wednesday as further storms are forecast.