NCM Warns of Storms and Hail Through Friday
The UAE's National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast unsettled weather across Abu Dhabi emirate from Monday to Friday, warning of convective cloud formation, rainfall of varying intensity, strong downdraft winds and the possibility of small hail in some areas. The NCM said convective clouds are expected to develop over parts of the emirate, with inland areas likely to be affected, particularly around Tuesday, while forecasters have separately flagged winds reaching up to 50kph on Wednesday and Thursday that could reduce visibility because of blowing dust and sand.
Rain of varying intensity is expected to be accompanied by fresh to strong downdraft winds capable of stirring up dust and sand across affected areas. In Al Ain and Al Dhafra, the weather system may also bring small hail over limited areas, according to the NCM, which is continuing to monitor the unstable conditions as they move across the emirate through the end of the week.
Abu Dhabi Police Urge Caution on the Roads
Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution throughout the unsettled period and to follow official instructions as conditions shift. The NCM advised motorists to drive carefully, avoid valleys prone to flash flooding, carry first-aid kits and prepare alternative light sources in case of weather-related disruptions to power or visibility.
Separately, Abu Dhabi Police called on motorists to exercise extra caution because of the rainy conditions, urging drivers to adhere to the variable speed limits displayed on road signs and electronic message boards to help ensure road safety. The warning follows a broader pattern of unsettled weather across the UAE this week, with several emirates seeing afternoon rain, dust and reduced visibility as temperatures continue to swing between scorching highs and sudden storms.
