Hailstorm pelts UAE after night of thunder, lightning
Residents across the UAE woke up to a surprising sight on Tuesday morning as hailstones covered their backyards in the Al Ain region, following a night of relentless rain accompanied by thunder and lightning in Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and parts of Sharjah. Even in Dubai, residents witnessed flashes of lightning illuminating the night sky close to midnight, accompanied by thunder and light rain.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued a warning about hazardous weather conditions, urging residents to prepare for heavy rainfall in various parts of Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, with scattered showers expected in Dubai as well. This advisory aims to ensure residents are adequately prepared for potential adverse weather conditions and are cautious when venturing outdoors.
The Met Department emphasized the importance of taking precautions during heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can reduce visibility and pose risks such as falling solid objects. Residents have been advised to avoid areas prone to flash flooding and accumulation of rain and hail, prioritizing safety during such weather events.
Videos shared by UAE's dedicated 'storm chasers' on storm.ae captured the phenomenon of hail showers inundating residents' gardens and streets in Al Ain, providing a visual representation of the intensity of the weather conditions.
In response to the unstable weather conditions, the Abu Dhabi Police activated temporary speed reduction systems, lowering the speed limit to 80 km/h on certain roads including the Abu Dhabi - Al Ain road (Al Haffar Bridge - Baniyas Bridge) and Maktoum Bin Rashid road (Al Shahama Bridge - Al Nouf Bridge). These measures aim to enhance road safety and minimize the risk of accidents during adverse weather conditions.
The Ministry of Interior echoed the importance of vigilance during inclement weather, urging residents to exercise caution, reduce speed on roads, avoid water ponds and fast-moving streams, and refrain from visiting the sea and beaches. These precautions are crucial for safeguarding personal safety and minimizing the potential impact of adverse weather events on individuals and communities.
As the UAE experiences fluctuating weather patterns, staying informed and prepared for sudden changes is essential. By heeding the advice of meteorological authorities and taking proactive measures to mitigate risks, residents can navigate through challenging weather conditions with greater resilience and safety.
By: Sahiba Suri
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