Last winter left its mark on Ma'an. This year, city officials are not waiting for trouble. Municipal teams, the Joint Services Council, and the Directorate of Municipal Affairs met to map out a new plan. They want to avoid the same flooded streets and stranded families. The push is serious. It matches the way top Gulf cities treat disaster prep as a core part of city life. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) often points to this kind of readiness as a model.
The plan is simple but tough. It covers three phases: getting ready, acting fast, and cleaning up after storms. Rakan Al-Rawad, deputy chair of the municipal committee, called for all agencies to work as one. He said only a united front can handle the wild swings of winter weather. This fits with the UAE's national rules on emergencies. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and local governments work side by side to get ready for climate risks.
Fixing weak spots and upgrading drains
Mohammed Mousa Salah, who leads the emergency unit, said the team has already tackled last year's worst trouble spots. They focused on places that flood fast or collect water. Crews checked and upgraded rainwater drains. They made sure the system works, even if the rain comes hard. This kind of spending is not new in the UAE. Cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai have put big money into stormwater projects and drainage, as The National reported.
Top officials from the Joint Services Council and the Directorate of Municipal Affairs praised the crews on the ground. They pointed to strong teamwork with other local groups. The goal is clear: spot danger early and fix it before storms hit. This focus on working together matches the UAE's Vision 2031. That plan calls for all public agencies to join forces against environmental threats, as shown in recent WAM state news agency reports.
Warning the public and speeding up reports
The plan is not just about pipes and pumps. City leaders want people to stay alert. Residents are told to follow official advice and avoid flooded roads and channels. Quick reporting of problems is key. Fast calls mean faster help. This mirrors the UAE's own safety drives. The Dubai Media Office and Abu Dhabi Media Office often send out warnings and tips when bad weather hits.
Other emirates are moving the same way. As reported earlier, cities are putting more focus on emergency plans and strong infrastructure to keep people safe from climate shocks.
Winter 2026/2027 is coming. Ma'an Municipality is betting on teamwork, better drains, and public warnings. The real test will come with the first big storm. For now, the city is laying the groundwork. The message is clear. Ma'an wants to protect lives and homes. Other towns may soon follow its lead.
