Lightning Strikes Burj Khalifa as Heavy Rain Sweeps Parts of Dubai
Ashwini Gambo
A dramatic lightning strike hit the tip of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, as heavy rain lashed parts of Dubai and the wider UAE on Thursday, coinciding with the peak of the ‘Al Bashayer’ low-pressure system affecting the country.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, shared a striking video capturing the moment lightning illuminated the tower against a backdrop of green, cloud-filled skies. The footage quickly drew attention on social media, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing weather system.
The video followed earlier posts by the Crown Prince urging residents to prepare for rainy days ahead. In Instagram reels shared on Wednesday, he showcased rain-laden clouds drifting slowly over desert sand dunes, followed by a weather map illustrating cloud movements across the UAE in the coming days.
Meteorological authorities have indicated that the country is currently experiencing the most active phase of Al Bashayer, bringing rainfall, thunderstorms, and fluctuating conditions to several regions. Residents have been advised to stay alert, follow official weather updates, and take necessary precautions during periods of heavy rain and lightning.
