UAE’s Ministry of Interior and NCEMA outline actions taken in response to recent weather conditions

The recent weather conditions in the UAE have left a lasting impact on the nation, but the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) are working tirelessly to ensure the full return of normalcy in all regions. In a joint statement, the MoI and NCEMA highlighted the efforts of their field teams, in coordination with the National Guard Command and strategic partners, in dealing with the aftermath of the unprecedented weather event.

Despite the challenges posed by the exceptional weather conditions and record rainfall, emergency teams led by the MoI, in collaboration with NCEMA, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), and other federal and local authorities, have been working diligently to mitigate the effects of the recent weather event. Thanks to the swift response and effective procedures implemented by the field teams, normalcy has been restored in most facilities across the Emirates, ensuring smooth traffic flow and safety for all residents.

The response efforts undertaken by various authorities have been extensive and comprehensive. A total of 97 entities from the Ministry of Interior, police departments, and local municipalities participated in the response efforts, deploying over 17,000 personnel from the MoI and 15,320 personnel from local departments. Additionally, 558 volunteers from various authorities, including the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, and 161 private sector entities were involved in the response operations.

Approximately 5,000 vehicles and machinery were deployed to address the repercussions of the weather event, while MoI Operations Centres and call centres received over 200,000 calls from the public during the crisis. Evacuation and sheltering operations were conducted in coordination with relevant authorities, with nearly 1,828 individuals evacuated and accommodated. Medical teams were formed to monitor the elderly and people with disabilities, and the National Ambulance Service responded to 1,426 calls during the low-pressure system.

The Emirates Red Crescent distributed food parcels, provided medicines and healthcare supplies, and ensured daily meals for those in need, while the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment emphasized the UAE’s commitment to addressing climate change and its impacts. The ministry highlighted ongoing efforts to develop solutions in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to mitigate the effects of climate change.

The recent unprecedented rainfall in the UAE has highlighted the increasing impact of climate change on the region, with the Ministry pointing out that the country usually witnesses varying degrees of rainfall each year, but not to the extent of the recent rates. Despite the impact on air travel, all UAE airports have resumed normal operations, thanks to effective management and coordination with response teams, airlines, and airport service partners.

In conclusion, the MoI and NCEMA expressed gratitude to local emergency management teams, strategic partners, community members, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in restoring normalcy and contributing to the UAE’s overall recovery from the weather event’s impacts. The collaborative efforts of all involved have been instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents during this challenging time.