UAE residents woke up to heavy rains, thunder, and lightning as unpredictable weather swept across the country. Large parts of the UAE were hit by moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms in the early hours of Tuesday 16 April, prompting weather warnings from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The NCM issued yellow and orange alerts for much of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, cautioning of 'hazardous weather events' expected to last until 6 pm on Wednesday 17 April.
UAE residents can expect varying intensities of rainfall, along with lightning and thunder over scattered areas, accompanied by a significant drop in temperatures. Moderate to heavy rain has been reported over several regions, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.
The storms are anticipated to peak today, Tuesday 16 April, and will gradually ease on Wednesday. Motorists are cautioned to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution if driving is unavoidable. Additionally, several public parks across the Emirates will remain closed on Tuesday due to the adverse weather conditions.
Today, 16 April, maximum temperatures in the internal regions are expected to range between 32°C and 37°C. Coastal areas and islands will see highs of 28°C to 34°C, while temperatures in the mountains will reach 16°C to 21°C.
Schools Conduct Remote Learning, Employees Asked To Work Remotely
In Dubai, Abu Dhabi And Sharjah
Due to unstable weather conditions across the UAE on 16 April, several precautionary measures have been implemented. Government employees have been instructed to work remotely for the day. Private sector companies are advised to take precautions for outdoor operations, although work continues where possible.
In Dubai, all private schools will conduct remote learning, while government entities facilitate remote work. Abu Dhabi and Sharjah have also ordered distance learning for private schools. Abu Dhabi Police has reduced speed limits on key roads, including the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road.
In Ajman
The local Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management Team in Ajman with relevant authorities, has decided to implement distance learning in private schools on 16 and 17 April due to expected weather conditions. This decision aims to prioritise the safety of students and staff. The team is on high alert and monitoring the situation closely to ensure vital services remain available. They advise extreme caution while driving in rainy and changing weather, urging people to avoid flood-prone areas like valleys, mountains, and the sea to prevent potential dangers.
In Umm Al Qaiwain
Today, Tuesday 16 April, public and private schools in Umm Al Qaiwain switch to remote learning, and nurseries are closed. This decision, made by the Local Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Management Team in collaboration with the Umm Al Qaiwain Educational Zone and the Emirates School Establishment, aims to ensure the safety of students and faculty. Universities and colleges have the freedom to decide their learning approach for the day and will communicate with their students accordingly.