ABU DHABI/DUBAI: A strong low-pressure system brought heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning across various parts of the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, early Saturday morning. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has warned that unstable weather conditions are expected to persist throughout the Eid al-Fitr holiday period.
While the rain brought a welcome dip in temperature across the cities, strong winds and dust storms have significantly reduced horizontal visibility on major highways.
‘Orange Alert’ Issued Across Emirates
Heavy downpours were recorded in areas such as Al Majaz in Sharjah, while Abu Dhabi and Dubai experienced thundery rain due to the West Asian low-pressure system. Authorities have issued an ‘Orange Alert’ for the Northern Emirates and Al Ain, warning of intensified rainfall, strong winds, and the possibility of hail in some regions.
Safety Guidelines and Police Warnings
In response to the shifting weather, the UAE Ministry of Interior and local police departments have issued strict safety protocols:
- For Motorists: Abu Dhabi Police urged drivers to reduce speeds and strictly adhere to the revised speed limits displayed on electronic road signs.
- Hazardous Areas: Residents are advised to stay away from valleys (wadis), dams, and areas prone to flooding.
- Beach Safety: Authorities have warned against going to beaches as sea conditions are expected to become highly turbulent.
- Visibility: Drivers must maintain a safe distance between vehicles and avoid sudden swerving due to poor visibility caused by dust and rain.
Rain Forecast Until March 27
The NCM indicated that these weather conditions are likely to continue until next Friday, March 27. While the Northern and Eastern regions will see rain on Sunday, cloudy skies and scattered showers are expected across the country on Monday and Tuesday.
Emergency response teams from the Abu Dhabi Municipality and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have been deployed to manage potential waterlogging and ensure public safety during the festive week.
