(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Published: Wed 25 Jan 2023, 11:42 AM
Last updated: Wed 25 Jan 2023, 1:15 PM
The UAE's Ministry of Interior (MoI) and other authorities have advised residents to exercise caution while driving as heavy to moderate rains hit all seven emirates on Wednesday. Thunderstorms have lashed some areas as well.
According to an update posted by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the rainy and dusty conditions will prevail at least till 11.30pm tonight.
In an alert, the MoI warned of“fluctuations in weather conditions” and low visibility with heavy rains, and high-speed winds kicking up dust.
“Avoid valleys and places where water flows,” the ministry advised. Heavy rains usually result in valleys flooding as water gushes down the mountains.
The NCM urged motorists to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. It also issued code yellow and orange alerts that cover most parts of the country:
Authorities in Ras Al Khaimah warned that trying to cross valleys during heavy rains may cause vehicles to drift, resulting in accidents.
Residents have also been told to avoid going to beaches and the sea.
Heavy to moderate rains have hit:
Abu Dhabi: Al Dhafra, Al Ain, with thunderstorms in Musaffah and east of Liwa. Dubai: Hatta, Al Aweer, Lahbab, Lissaili. Sharjah: Al Madam, Dhaid, Khor Fakkan, Dibba Al Hisn. Ajman: Masfoot. Umm Al Quwain: Ramlah. Ajman: Masfut Fujairah: Corniche.
The UAE's Storm Centre posted this video from Fujairah:
The country will receive rainfall of different intensities with thunder and lightning at times today. A video the Storm Centre posted captures lightning in Ras Al Khaimah:
The unstable weather will continue tomorrow, with a“significant decrease” in temperatures. Friday and Saturday will also see some rainfall over coastal, Northern and Eastern areas.
The unstable weather will continue tomorrow, with a“significant decrease” in temperatures. Friday and Saturday will also see some rainfall over coastal, Northern and Eastern areas.
The MoI and National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) had earlier announced the country's readiness to“face any emergency that may arise as a result of the prevailing weather condition and its fluctuations”.
Residents were told follow official weather forecasts and adhere to instructions issued by the authorities.
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