The UAE has been witnessing unstable weather since the start of this week and forecasters warn that conditions may worsen over the next three days.
National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued a yellow alert on Wednesday, 25 March, warning of strong winds that may lead to blowing dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility in some areas. The weather today will be cloudy, accompanied by rainfall of different intensities. Temperatures tend to increase gradually. Dubai is forecast a high of 28°C during the day and low of 20°C at night, and Abu Dhabi at a high of 29°C during the day and a low of 20°C.
According to the NCM, the most severe conditions are expected from Thursday, 26 March into Friday, 27 March, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and thunder. The UAE has already experienced several days of downpours, with parts of Abu Dhabi and Ajman recording almost a year’s worth of rainfall on Monday, 23 March, keeping authorities on high alert.
NCM states heavy rain is forecast on Thursday, 26 March, in Abu Dhabi before spreading nationwide. High winds, thunderstorms and localised flooding are possible, with some international forecasters predicting a rare tornado in the region.
The unsettled weather is expected to continue across the UAE until Friday, 27 March. Temperatures will rise for the remainder of the week to highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
NCM is monitoring the situation continuously and the Ministry of Interior urged the public to stay away from flooded areas and valleys. Authorities have warned drivers of strict fines for unsafe driving in rainy weather. The Ministry of Interior has also released a number of fines, going up to Dhs 2,000, for those who fail to follow the rules.