Heavy rains close Abu Dhabi airport, Emirates schools

DUBAI — Heavy rains have closed Abu Dhabi’s international airport and shut schools in the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi International Airport, home to Etihad airline, announced the flight suspension Wednesday on Twitter “due to severe weather conditions.” Dubai International Airport, home to the long-haul carrier Emirates, saw some flights delayed. The state-owned The National newspaper of Abu Dhabi also said local schools had been closed, while others in Dubai planned to close early. The United Arab Emirates’ National Center for Meteorology and Seismology had warned that heavy rains were possible Wednesday. Heavy rains are uncommon in the desert nation. — AP