Dubai is facing severe weather conditions that have disrupted the city’s infrastructure just as prominent figures in the cryptocurrency industry have gathered for various conferences.

Events like Blockchain Life and Token2049 were caught off guard on Apr. 16 when Dubai experienced a sudden surge in rainfall, breaking previous records within a 24-hour period. This unexpected weather phenomenon led to adjustments in the conference schedules, with Blockchain Life delaying its entrance opening due to traffic issues.

Social media platforms were inundated with videos depicting the disruptions not only in the city but also at the crypto conferences. Attendees’ attempts to reach the conferences were humorously discussed on social media platforms.

Despite the challenges, a spokesperson for Token2049 reassured the public that the storm had not impeded access to Dubai, confirming that the conference would proceed as planned.

The heavy rainfall did, however, impact the city’s infrastructure, prompting Emirates airline to halt check-in services for departing passengers from Dubai between 8 a.m. and midnight on Apr. 17. Similarly, Fly Dubai, a government-owned budget airline, suspended all flights from the UAE hub until 10 a.m. on the same day.

In response to the extreme weather, the government issued a red warning on Apr. 16, resulting in the closure of offices, schools, and banks nationwide. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Authority advised residents to stay indoors and park vehicles in elevated areas away from flood-prone zones.