Unsettled Weather Grips The UAE
Low-Pressure System Sweeps In
UAE residents and visitors should brace for turbulent weather over the next 48 hours as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have hit the Arabian Gulf country.
A low-pressure system affecting neighbouring Oman is also impacting the UAE, albeit with varying intensity due to differing topographies.
Oman has been experiencing unstable weather conditions starting on April 15, prompting authorities there to issue weather alerts, even as the Royal Oman Police announced the deaths of 17 people in inclement weather-related incidents in the country.
The UAE’s National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) noted that significant rainfall is falling in the country, and hailstorms are possible in various parts, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, and Sharjah.
At the time of filing this news report, heavy showers had already commenced in the coastal regions of the UAE, signalling the onset of what could be a prolonged period of inclement weather.
Thunderclouds accompanied by strong winds have envelopd the UAE, potentially reducing visibility, particularly in the eastern parts. Abu Dhabi emirate has also experienced high wind speeds, exacerbating the weather.
Weather Pattern
This weather pattern marks the first wave expected to persist until April 16 morning. By April 16 afternoon, a new wave will gradually advance towards Abu Dhabi from the UAE’s western region, spreading progressively to the northern and eastern areas, including Al Ain.
The UAE’s NCM issued advisories for thunderstorms across many parts of the country on April 15, urging residents, especially motorists, to exercise caution.
Potential hazards include heavy rainfall leading to waterlogging, flooding in wadi areas, and landslides in the mountainous northern and eastern regions.
As the unsettled weather unfolds, UAE residents and visitors are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and minimise potential risks associated with the inclement conditions.
UAE government employees have been instructed to resort to remote working.
The Ras Al Khaimah Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Team has announced the transition of schools to remote learning for April 16 and 17. Additionally, all parks and beaches within Ras Al Khaimah emirate are temporarily shut down until further notice.
Schools across the UAE are also closed, in view of the adverse weather conditions.
During adverse weather conditions, the UAE’s National Centre for Meteorology urges people to:
- Monitor weather changes via official forecasts and media alerts.
- Conduct regular checks on wiring and ensure secure installations.
- Clearwater channels and maintain sewer systems to prevent blockages.
- Keep first aid kits and alternative lighting sources ready.
- Keep children indoors and away from open areas.
- Monitor water channels to prevent indoor flooding.
- Unplug home devices to avoid electrical hazards during lightning strikes.
- Refrain from touching metal surfaces, electrical devices, or plumbing.
- Limit outdoor activities to emergencies only.
- Avoid showering to minimise risks associated with plumbing connections.
- Avoid standing near tall trees, power poles, or bodies of water.
- Steer clear of shorelines, valleys, and dams during heavy rains.
- Find a safe location away from electrical sources, even if power is disconnected.
- Equip yourself with firefighting tools to address potential lightning-induced fires.
- Minimise mobile phone usage outdoors, reserving it for emergencies.
- Follow directives from competent authorities.
- Avoid attempting electrical reconnections.
- Reduce speed while driving and maintain distance from other vehicles.
- Avoid driving through flooded areas to prevent loss of vehicle control.
Featured image: A car drives through an inundated road in Sharjah City on April 16, 2024. Credit: Arnold Pinto
Last Updated on 9 months by News Desk 1
