Unstable weather has affected parts of the UAE throughout this week, bringing thunderstorms, strong winds, blowing dust and periods of heavy rain across the country. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, conditions are expected to remain unsettled through till Friday, 27 March, before gradually easing into the weekend.
The UAE is bracing for one final wave of unstable weather, with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and possible hail expected, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) said.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warned of further heavy rain across the country on Thursday, 26 March with more downpours, thunder and lightning forecast for Friday, 27 March.
The storm expected from Thursday afternoon will affect Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, before spreading across the country, and hitting its peak on Friday morning. The weather bureau said wind speeds could reach up to 60kph on Friday, leading to a drop in temperatures and possible dust storms. The intense weather is expected to clear by the afternoon, giving way to sunny conditions by Saturday, 28 March.
With strong winds coming, the Dubai Government and Dubai Police urged residents and visitors to follow safety guidelines. Authorities advised residents to follow the below guidelines:
- Stay away from valleys, flood-prone areas, and places where rainwater may accumulate
- Stay away from mountainous areas
- Avoid going to sea
- Exercise caution while driving and reduce speed
- Follow official channels and government authorities for accurate information and timely updates
Authorities have warned drivers of strict fines for unsafe driving in rainy weather. The Ministry of Interior has released a whole lot of fines, going up to Dhs 2,000, for those who fail to follow the rules.
Dubai Police also outlined safe driving guidelines during rainy weather, strong winds, thunder and lightning. Residents are urged to:
- Maintain a safe distance between vehicles
- Ensure the safety and proper condition of tyres, wind shield wipers and vehicle lighting
- Reduce speed and drive calmly on wet roads
- Avoid sudden braking and exercise extra caution when approaching curves
- Stay away from valleys, flood channels and areas with water accumulation
- Avoid going to the sea and beaches
Meanwhile, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has stepped up its field and operational response by deploying specialised teams and equipment across the city to monitor road conditions, traffic movement and public transport services.
Moving into the weekend, cloudy weather is expected on Saturday, 28 March and Sunday, 29 March. Although there is no rain forecast, winds are expected to reach speeds of 40kph, causing blowing dust. The temperature in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will reach highs of 25°C on Saturday, 28 March, before dropping to 23°C on Sunday, 29 March.