The UAE is set to close all roads leading to valleys and mountains this weekend in anticipation of “severe” weather conditions. Authorities have announced that the closures will remain in effect until the foul weather abates.
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hail are forecasted to hit the country starting Friday evening, March 8, and will continue until noon on Sunday, March 10. These conditions are expected to result in floods in some areas and strong winds may lead to reduced visibility on roads. The weather is predicted to be most severe from midnight Friday to midnight Saturday.
The inclement weather will initially affect the Al Dhafra and Al Ain regions before moving towards Abu Dhabi and its suburbs, eventually covering Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. By Sunday evening, the intensity of the weather is expected to decrease.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid venturing out unless absolutely necessary. Motorists are also advised to park their vehicles in safe locations, away from mountains, valleys, and bodies of water.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has issued warnings about hailstorms and urged the public to take necessary precautions to protect themselves, their property, and their vehicles from damage. Officials have also highlighted the penalties for those who endanger themselves or others, including fines of up to Dh2,000 for entering flooded valleys, and Dh1,000 for obstructing emergency and rescue operations.
In light of the severe weather forecast, disaster and crisis management teams will decide on implementing remote learning for schools and the potential cancellation of outdoor events this weekend.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) expects the harsh weather conditions to ease by Sunday evening, with no rain forecasted for Monday, except for possible fog in the morning.
Authorities, including the police, rescue teams, paramedics, and civil defense, are on high alert and fully prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise. This proactive approach follows recent events last month when heavy rains and hail caused significant disruptions across the country, leading to the damage of property and vehicles, particularly in Al Ain.