UAE braces for heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas till November 12

Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, combined with an approaching low-pressure system, are expected to bring thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to several parts of the UAE from Wednesday. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the northern emirates are among the areas likely to experience changing weather conditions.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast rainfall of varying intensity, with some regions potentially receiving heavy showers as cloud formations move across the country. Winds could reach speeds of 45kmph, raising dust and sand and affecting sea conditions.

According to the NCM, unsettled weather conditions are expected to continue from Monday through Thursday, accompanied by increasing cloud cover, rainfall and gradually falling temperatures.

Low-Pressure System to Bring Rain Across the UAE

The approaching weather system is linked to an extension of a weak surface low-pressure system from the west, accompanied by an upper-air low-pressure system.

Dr Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at the NCM, told Khaleej Times that moisture-laden south-westerly winds from the Arabian Sea, along with approaching cloud formations from Saudi Arabia, would contribute to the changing weather conditions.

He explained that the surface low-pressure system extending from the Red Sea trough is bringing moisture towards the UAE. An upper-air low-pressure system moving from the north-west is also contributing additional moisture.

Cloud formations currently developing over Saudi Arabia are gradually moving towards the UAE, increasing the possibility of rainfall across several regions.

Which UAE Areas Are Expected to Receive Heavy Rain?

The first significant cloud formations are expected to develop from Tuesday, initially affecting the western parts of the country, islands, coastal areas and northern regions.

However, Wednesday afternoon could bring more intense weather as the low-pressure system strengthens and triggers convective cloud formations, potentially producing heavy showers and thunderstorms.

According to Habib, rainfall is expected to begin in the western parts of the UAE before moving towards coastal regions and major cities, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The expected rainfall distribution includes:

Ras Al Khaimah: Some of the heaviest rainfall is forecast over mountainous areas and northern parts of the emirate.

Northern Emirates: Several northern regions and coastal areas could experience moderate to heavy showers.

Al Dhafra: Rainfall is also expected in some parts of the region.

Abu Dhabi: Coastal areas and the capital could receive light to moderate rainfall.

Dubai: Rain showers are possible, with light to moderate intensity expected.

Sharjah: Some areas could experience rainfall as cloud formations move across the country.

Dubai to Al Ain: Thunderstorms may develop in areas between the two cities, extending towards north-east Al Ain.

The meteorologist said rainfall intensity would vary from light to moderate, with heavy showers possible in areas affected by convective clouds.

The unsettled weather is expected to continue until the afternoon of November 12.

Strong Winds Could Affect Visibility and Sea Conditions

Along with rainfall and thunderstorms, residents should prepare for stronger winds across the country.

North-westerly winds are expected to become moderate to strong, with speeds potentially reaching 45kmph.

These winds could lead to:

Blowing dust and sand in exposed areas.
Reduced visibility on some roads.
Rough to very rough sea conditions at times.
Stronger winds, particularly over coastal and marine areas.
Residents, motorists and those planning marine activities are advised to remain alert to changing weather conditions and follow official NCM updates.

UAE Temperatures Expected to Drop by 4°C to 6°C

The approaching weather system is also expected to bring cooler temperatures across the UAE over the next few days.

According to the NCM meteorologist, temperatures could gradually fall by around 4°C to 6°C over the next three days as cloud cover increases and rainfall spreads across different regions.

A further temperature drop is expected on Tuesday, followed by another decrease on Friday.

However, the change will be gradual rather than a sudden drop, bringing relatively cooler conditions across the country.

Although the main spell of unsettled weather is expected to ease after the afternoon of November 12, some cloud activity could remain over the northern and eastern parts of the UAE on Friday.

Dr Ahmed Habib noted that this type of rainfall is relatively common during the autumn season, when weather systems can bring moisture and cloud formations towards the country.

The changing conditions are part of the UAE's seasonal weather patterns, with rainfall and cooler temperatures expected during this period.

With thunderstorms, possible heavy showers, stronger winds and reduced visibility expected in several areas, residents should monitor official weather forecasts and take necessary precautions.

Motorists should drive carefully during rainfall, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid areas where water accumulates. Those planning outdoor or marine activities should also consider changing weather and sea conditions.

The NCM will continue monitoring the developing weather system and issuing updates as conditions change across the UAE.