Red alert issued as fog continues; thunderstorm, rain expected in some areas

UAE weather

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a warning to motorists about poor visibility caused by fog formation on the morning of Monday, June 24. This red alert, which cautions residents about deteriorating horizontal visibility, indicates that conditions may worsen at times until 8:30 AM.

Over the past weekend, the NCM had also issued red alerts for heavy fog on both Saturday and Sunday, with these foggy conditions expected to persist through today, Monday. In a post on X, Abu Dhabi Police advised motorists to exercise caution due to the reduced visibility during fog. Drivers are specifically urged to follow the changing speed limits displayed on electronic information boards to ensure safety on the roads.

Despite the fog, the UAE is expected to experience a generally fair to partly cloudy day on Monday. Low clouds are forecasted to appear along the east coast by morning, with a possibility of rainfall in the eastern regions by the afternoon, spurred by convective clouds. According to the weather site Windy, thunderstorms are anticipated in the northern part of the country later in the afternoon.

On Sunday, heavy rains accompanied by hail lashed Khatm Al Shiklah in Al Ain, following the yellow alert for rain issued by the NCM. Additionally, moderate to heavy rain was observed on the new Khor Fakkan road, which leads to Al Dhaid. Light to moderate rain was also reported in Maleha, Sharjah, according to posts on X.

While certain areas may see rainfall today, the weather is expected to remain hot. Temperatures in the internal areas could soar to 49ºC. In Abu Dhabi, the mercury is predicted to reach up to 48ºC, while in Dubai, temperatures could hit 47ºC. On Friday, June 21, the UAE recorded the highest temperature of the summer season so far. At 3:15 PM, a temperature of 49.9ºC was registered in Mezaira in the Al Dhafra region, as reported by the NCM on X.

Light to moderate winds, freshening at times, are expected to blow across the country during the daytime today. The sea conditions will be slight in both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea, indicating calm maritime conditions.

Motorists are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines, particularly during the periods of heavy fog and reduced visibility. The NCM continues to monitor weather conditions closely and advises residents to stay updated through official channels for any further alerts or advisories.

This weather pattern, marked by extreme heat and variable conditions, underscores the importance of being prepared for sudden changes. Residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions to stay safe, whether they are on the road, at home, or outdoors. The ongoing weather advisories highlight the need for community awareness and cooperation to navigate these challenging conditions safely.

As the UAE continues to experience these dynamic weather patterns, the NCM's role in providing timely updates and warnings remains crucial. By staying informed and following safety measures, residents can help mitigate the risks associated with severe weather conditions.