Residents of the UAE experienced a dramatic weather shift on Monday with thunderstorms and lightning marking the start of the day, following continuous heavy rainfall throughout the night. The country is bracing for a notable dip in temperatures in response to this weather pattern.
Social media platforms and the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) were flooded with images and videos showing hailstorms striking various parts of the nation, including Al Ain, the Al Wothba region, and Bani Yas in Abu Dhabi. Some areas, like Dar Al Zain, reported hail sizes comparable to golf balls, covering the streets.
In light of the severe weather, local authorities have issued warnings advising the public to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, especially near beaches and wadis. The Abu Dhabi Police have specifically called on drivers to be extra vigilant when on the road, suggesting outings be limited to essential trips only. They’ve also recommended avoiding flood-prone regions, staying away from electric lines and trees, obeying speed limits, maintaining a safe following distance, and exercising caution when braking or turning to avoid skids.
To enhance road safety during these adverse conditions, a speed reduction system has been implemented, capping speeds at 120 Km/h on the Mohammed Bin Rashid road between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
The NCM has indicated that this unsettled weather, which commenced on Sunday, February 11, is expected to persist, with Monday forecasted to see continued heavy rainfall, lightning, and thunder across various regions. The weather agency also predicts moderate to fresh winds, with speeds ranging from 20 to 35 kilometres per hour, surging up to 70 kilometres per hour at times, especially during cloud activity.