A Closer Look: The impact of the worst storm in UAE history

In A Closer Look, The National provides an in-depth take on one of the main stories of the week

On April 16, the UAE was hit with torrential weather so bad the country is still recovering more than a week later.

Flooding in Dubai and Sharjah submerged entire cars and houses were abandoned as the water level rose dramatically.

Full-scale efforts from authorities to distribute water pumps and other emergency services meant that much of the country was dry the next day. However, for some residents the ongoing consequences of the storm means they are still in dire need of help.

Here, host Sarah Forster talks to The National's Communities Editor Ramola Talwar Badam to hear how government initiatives have been set up to help those most in need and which areas of the country were worst affected.

Sheikh Hamdan approves free temporary housing, food and aid for flood-affected residents

Volunteers use dinghys to float supplies to Sharjah residents almost a week after floods

The aftermath of Dubai flooding: in pictures

Tankers clearing waterlogged roads near Discovery Gardens metro station in Dubai on April 22. Pawan Singh / The National

Many roads in Dubai have been flooded since last week's torrential rainfall. Pawan Singh / The National

The tankers are pumping the water from the roads. Pawan Singh / The National

School buses on hand to drive pupils through the water after the flood. Antonie Robertson / The National

Pupils are returning to school after many were closed due to the heavy rain and flooding. Antonie Robertson / The National

The clean-up is under way in District 5, Jumeirah Park. Antonie Robertson / The National

District 5 residents deal with the aftermath of the flooding one week on. Antonie Robertson / The National

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets

Lexus LX700h specs

Engine: 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 plus supplementary electric motor

Power: 464hp at 5,200rpm

Torque: 790Nm from 2,000-3,600rpm

Transmission: 10-speed auto

Fuel consumption: 11.7L/100km

On sale: Now

Price: From Dh590,000

What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE

Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Supports heart health and reduces inflammation, especially for those who consume little fish.

Who was Alfred Nobel?

The Nobel Prize was created by wealthy Swedish chemist and entrepreneur Alfred Nobel.

In his will he dictated that the bulk of his estate should be used to fund "prizes to those who, during the preceding year, have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind".
Nobel is best known as the inventor of dynamite, but also wrote poetry and drama and could speak Russian, French, English and German by the age of 17. The five original prize categories reflect the interests closest to his heart.
Nobel died in 1896 but it took until 1901, following a legal battle over his will, before the first prizes were awarded.

Who's who in Yemen conflict

Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government

Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council

Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south

Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory