UAE Braces for Weekend Storms

thunderstorm

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is preparing for potentially severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms and heavy rain, over the upcoming weekend. Following recent hailstorms and wet weather, authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure readiness for any adverse impacts.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) announced that task force meetings are underway to ensure response teams are fully equipped to handle any weather-related incidents. With the anticipation of unstable weather and a decrease in temperatures, preparations are being made to mitigate potential risks to residents and infrastructure.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the current weather forecast for today indicates partly cloudy conditions with a likelihood of transitioning to cloudier skies as the night progresses and into Friday morning. Convective clouds are expected over scattered areas, particularly in the western regions, which may result in rainfall. While temperatures are predicted to rise throughout the day, winds ranging from light to moderate, occasionally intensifying, could lead to blowing dust and sand, potentially affecting horizontal visibility. Seas are forecasted to be slight to moderate in the Arabian Gulf and slight in the Oman Sea.

Early Thursday morning, the Meteorological Department reported light rainfall in some scattered areas of the country, including Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Looking ahead, the NCM has issued a forecast for another significant weather event expected to impact the entire country from late Thursday night through Sunday, reaching its peak on Saturday. This weather system is projected to cover most parts of the UAE, extending from the western regions to the north and east.

In response to the anticipated adverse weather conditions, UAE authorities have scheduled a special media briefing for today, March 7, at 5 pm. Residents are urged to adhere strictly to safety protocols, particularly in areas prone to heavy rain. It is essential to refrain from sharing unverified information and rely solely on official sources for accurate updates, as emphasized by the NCEMA.

In addition to the weather-related challenges, the UAE is also preparing for Ramadan, with announcements regarding working hours in the private sector being made. Meanwhile, Dubai has revised its Real Estate Regulatory Agency (Rera) calculator, indicating that residents may see up to a 20% increase in rent, reflecting ongoing developments in the real estate market.

As the UAE braces for more thunderstorms and heavy rain, residents are encouraged to stay informed, exercise caution, and follow guidance from authorities to ensure their safety and well-being during this period of unstable weather.