Dubai braces for severe weather as meteorologists issue urgent warnings about incoming storms that could disrupt daily life across the emirate. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds are expected to sweep through the region, prompting authorities to activate emergency protocols. Residents face potential flooding, reduced visibility, and dangerous driving conditions as this weather system moves eastward from western regions throughout the weekend.
A weather system is causing heavy rainfall in the UAE
According to the National Centre of Meteorology, unstable weather conditions are also expected throughout the coming hours of Friday, culminating in the first rainfall peak that is expected to happen between Thursday and Friday. The rainfall that is expected to happen within the Dubai area is approximately 15mm. Furthermore, the heaviest rainfall is expected between 4:00 and 6:00 AM. The northern and eastern areas of the UAE, including the Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah areas, have already experienced rainfall of over 33mm.
Abu Dhabi will receive the most rainfall late Thursday night, with an intensity of 16mm expected by the end of Friday. These mesoscale clouds are produced when the Red Sea origin system interacts with the clouds of cold air at higher levels, resulting in convective cloud systems that are potentially life-threatening. This has already been corroborated by reports from the authorities regarding reduced visibility because of gusting dust and rainfall.
Dubai International Airport has estimated that it will record a record number of 8.7 million passengers in the coming month, thus adding to the challenges it is facing with respect to extreme weather changes. Passengers are advised to arrive early if they wish to pass through the airport when there are impending thunderstorms.
The police impose stiff penalties for those who drive recklessly
The Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police have relied on criticism directed at the irresponsible actions of car drivers during the storm season. Entering a flooded valley or a closed road attracts a fine of Dh2,000 and includes 23 black points and 60 days’ car impoundment. Obstruction of roads that hinder emergency response attracts a Dh1,000 fine and comes with a 60-day car impoundment. Photographing the weather through mobiles for pictorial purposes attracts a Dh800 fine and comes with four black points.
Collecting at valleys and dams, which are surrounded by floods to observe the movement of water, will also result in a penalty to citizens to the tune of Dh1,000 and six black points. The conditions are expected to worsen at sea, with the NCM forecasting ‘rough to very rough’ conditions for the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman because of winds gusting up to 65km/h.
Weather safety penalties:
- Entering flooded areas: Dh2,000 + 23 black points + 60-day impoundment
- Obstructing emergency services: Dh1,000 + 60-day impoundment
- Phone use while driving: Dh800 + 4 black points
- Gathering near dams: Dh1,000 + 6 black points
Temperature drop accompanies the passing of the weekend storm
As the dispersal of rain clouds progresses with the approach of the end of the weekend, temperatures in the UAE will gradually lower, bringing in a cooler atmosphere as the rainfall completely exits the UAE. The day temperatures will remain at 24°C in Dubai and 23°C in Abu Dhabi, while other inland areas like Al Ain may experience a night temperature of 10°C by Saturday evening, which will also bid farewell to the rainfall.
The disaster management team is on high alert and prepared to react in case of any distress related to the weather. Citizens are encouraged to prepare to brave the harsh weather for an extended period until the relevant authority confirms the safety of the public and avoids any disruption related to important services. Record-breaking air traffic during harsh weather is a serious test that needs proper preparation based on safety standards.
