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The UAE is experiencing a spell of unstable weather today and into the weekend, with scattered rain, thunderstorms, lightning and the possibility of hail in several areas, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
Forecasters said partly cloudy to cloudy skies will dominate, with convective cloud formations bringing rainfall of varying intensity. Winds are expected to be moderate to fresh, strengthening at times and causing blowing dust and sand, which may reduce visibility, particularly during storm activity. Sea conditions are forecast to be rough, posing challenges along coastal areas.
Sharjah Police close Desert Police Park
Sharjah Police have temporarily closed the Desert Police Park in Al Bataah on December 18 and 19 due to heavy rain, thunderstorms and unstable weather linked to the low-pressure system known as “Al Bashayer”.
The closure aims to protect visitors and staff from risks posed by strong winds, flooding and lightning. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, avoid flood-prone areas and stay away from open desert locations. The park, which recently launched its sixth season, will reopen once weather conditions stabilise.
Abu Dhabi on high alert
Government departments and authorities in Abu Dhabi have announced heightened readiness, with emergency teams mobilised to respond to expected weather impacts.
The Abu Dhabi City Municipality said field and technical teams are fully prepared, with continuous monitoring of official updates and the implementation of approved emergency management plans to ensure public safety and service continuity.
IndiGo issues travel advisory
IndiGo Airlines has warned that adverse weather across the UAE, including heavy rain and possible thunderstorms, may cause intermittent disruptions to flight operations throughout the day.
In a post shared on X, the airline said it is closely monitoring the situation and advised passengers to stay updated, as weather conditions could affect flight schedules and airport operations.
Advisory for private sector companies
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has urged private sector companies across the UAE to take all necessary safety precautions at workplaces on Thursday and Friday, December 18 and 19.
The ministry stressed the importance of protecting workers’ health and safety, especially at outdoor worksites where operations may be affected. Employers were reminded to strictly follow occupational health and safety requirements during work hours and while employees commute to and from worksites.
Heavy rain floods roads in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has seen intense rainfall, leading to flooding on several roads across the emirate. Authorities have urged residents and motorists to exercise caution and avoid low-lying areas prone to water accumulation.
The public has been advised to stay informed through official weather warnings and traffic advisories as heavy rainfall continues to affect parts of the emirate.
Hatta Festival temporarily closed
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority announced the temporary closure of Hatta Festival on Thursday and Friday due to current weather conditions, citing public safety as the primary reason for the decision.
Dubai Police urge caution
Dubai Police have issued safety warnings, urging residents and visitors to take precautions amid adverse weather conditions. The public has been advised to avoid beaches, refrain from sailing and stay away from valleys and areas at risk of flash floods.
Motorists were also urged to drive carefully, reduce speed and follow official guidance to ensure safety on the roads.
Temperatures dip below 10°C
The lowest temperature recorded in the UAE today was 9.2°C on Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah at 3.45am. The NCM said cooler conditions and chilly winds are expected to persist across several regions, advising residents to stay warm and take necessary precautions.
Hail and violent storms hit Ras Al Khaimah
A powerful hailstorm struck Ras Al Khaimah on Thursday, accompanied by strong winds and intense thunderstorm activity. Hail was reported in areas including Ghalilah and Khor Khuwair, where heavy rainfall and occasionally damaging winds were also recorded.
The NCM said the storm cell intensified rapidly upon reaching the coastline, displaying radar signatures associated with severe thunderstorms and strong downdrafts. Meteorologists warned the public not to underestimate the system’s strength and advised avoiding valleys and flood-prone areas if further storm cells develop.
Heavy rain reported in Sharjah
Heavy rainfall was also reported across parts of Sharjah as convective clouds associated with the Al Bashayer low-pressure system advanced over the emirate.
Live observations confirmed intense rain in Khor Fakkan, while Al Hamriyah experienced heavy showers accompanied by gusty winds. The NCM said Sharjah is seeing unstable weather, with winds strengthening at times and reduced horizontal visibility due to dust and sand.
When will it rain?
The NCM has outlined a timeline to help residents plan and stay safe:
- Thursday afternoon (1pm to 5pm): Intermittent light to moderate rain across coastal and northern areas.
- Thursday night (from 10pm): Weather system intensifies over western regions, moving towards Abu Dhabi.
- Friday early morning (4am to 10am): The most volatile period, with heavy rain, lightning and a high chance of hail in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah during the morning rush.
Official NCM warning
In an official statement, the NCM said:
“The UAE is affected by an unstable weather situation due to the extension of a surface low-pressure system from the Red Sea. This will result in cloud formations of varying heights, leading to rainfall of different intensities accompanied by lightning, thunder and a chance of hail over limited areas.”
