This morning, residents of the UAE woke up to heavy rainfall, lightning and sweeping winds. Below, we take you through all the details of the UAE rainstorm set to take over the country this week.
Photo: Unsplash
After a gray Monday, almost all of the UAE is being subject to torrential rain today. The weather change kicked off late last night in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and officials have now issued warnings to residents to ensure their safety. According to reports, the current weather is only the tip of the iceberg, with intense rainfall predicted in the Emirates for the next two days.
The National Centre of Meteorology has now issued both yellow and orange alerts, especially for Abu Dhabi and Dubai, sharing that city dwellers can expect “hazardous weather events” well into Wednesday, April 17. Along with the ongoing rainfall and thunder, experts are also expecting hail in some parts of the UAE — Al Ain has already been recorded to have been affected by a hailstorm mere hours ago.
Given the current weather conditions across the country, characterized by rains, strong winds, thunder, lightning, and sometimes hail, reducing visibility, road users are advised to abide by the following guidelines. Let’s strive together for a safer and more secure community. pic.twitter.com/YSPKyaTEpC
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) April 15, 2024
Keeping this in mind, Dubai Police and the NCM has also warned all to stay off the roads — which are already flooding — over the next 48 hours and “avoid driving unless absolutely necessary”. Along with this, all schools, as well as most beaches and parks will also be closed for the coming two days until the UAE rainstorm subsides. Government employees will be working from home today, and most other offices have also encouraged teams to continue daily tasks from the safety of their homes.
Ensuring the safety of all, HH Sheikh Hamdan also shared an announcement on his official Twitter page.
Due to upcoming weather conditions, we have instructed all Dubai Government entities and private schools to work remotely on Tuesday, April 16.
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) April 15, 2024
Off land, the stormy weather will also impact flyers, with many flights either being delayed or cancelled at this time. “Due to forecasted heavy thunderstorms in Dubai on 16 and 17 April, operations at Dubai International Airport may be affected,” read the official statement. “We are actively collaborating with our service partners and airlines to minimise any inconvenience experienced by our guests. We urge guests flying out of DXB to check their flight status and plan accordingly.”
Here’s wishing all a safe week through the ongoing UAE rainstorm.
