Heavy Rainfall: A Medical Perspective on Health Risks and Prevention

Dubai has recently experienced unusually heavy rainfall in terms of both volume and impact, leading to water accumulation in several areas and disruption to aspects of daily life. While rain is environmentally beneficial, from a medical perspective it poses real health challenges, particularly for the most vulnerable groups. Based on my daily work in emergency departments and intensive care units, I would like to shed light in greater detail on these risks and how to address them with awareness and responsibility.

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Key Public Health Risks Associated with Heavy Rainfall

The impact of heavy rainfall extends beyond roads and infrastructure and directly affects human health. The most significant risks include:

• Increased infection rates: High humidity and standing water create an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi.
• Respiratory illnesses: A rise in common colds, chest infections, and worsening of asthma and allergies due to humidity and mold.
• Physical injuries: Slips, falls, fractures, and bruises, particularly in poorly prepared walkways.
• Road traffic accidents: Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and vehicle breakdowns, leading to serious injuries that may require intensive care.

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Increased Pressure on Emergency Departments During Rainy Periods

During periods of heavy rainfall, we clearly observe:

• A noticeable increase in emergency department visits
• A rise in:
  • Road traffic accident injuries
  • Slips and falls inside and outside homes
  • Acute asthma attacks and shortness of breath
  • Pneumonia cases among the elderly

Some cases arrive late due to difficulty accessing healthcare facilities, increasing their severity and often necessitating admission to intensive care units. This highlights the importance of not ignoring early symptoms and not delaying medical attention.

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Groups at Higher Risk of Health Complications

Certain populations are more vulnerable during these weather conditions, including:

• Children: Due to weaker immunity and greater susceptibility to dehydration and infections
• Older adults: Because of the risk of worsening heart and lung diseases and balance issues
• Patients with chronic illnesses, such as:
  • Asthma and chronic lung diseases
  • Diabetes (higher risk of skin infections and delayed wound healing)
  • Heart disease and hypertension
  • Immunocompromised individuals
• Outdoor workers: Due to direct exposure to water, cold, and physical exhaustion

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Urgent and Practical Preventive Measures

To reduce health risks, the following measures are strongly advised:

• Avoid going out during heavy rain unless absolutely necessary
• Do not walk or drive through flooded roads
• Wear slip-resistant footwear
• Completely avoid contact with standing water
• Clean and disinfect even minor wounds
• Wash hands regularly and disinfect surfaces
• Strictly adhere to prescribed medications
• Carry asthma inhalers and emergency medications
• Seek medical care immediately if experiencing shortness of breath or sudden deterioration
• Closely supervise children and prevent them from playing near pooled water
• Ensure proper home ventilation to reduce humidity and mold growth

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When Should You Seek Emergency Care Immediately?

Do not hesitate to seek urgent medical help if you experience:

• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Persistent high fever
• Severe diarrhea or vomiting
• Worsening skin infections
• Dizziness or loss of balance after a fall

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Final Note

Rain is undoubtedly a blessing, but managing it with health awareness is what transforms it from a potential risk into a safe experience. Cooperation between the community and healthcare authorities, adherence to medical guidance, and making timely decisions are all essential factors in protecting lives and reducing pressure on hospitals.

Health is a shared responsibility—and prevention is always better than cure.

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Dr. Mahmoud Medhat Abou Moussa
Specialist in Intensive Care Medicine

International Modern Hospital Dubai