Stormy Weather Grips UAE With Hail, Rain, and Safety Alerts
Hail, rain, and strong winds hit UAE as authorities issue safety advisories for drivers and coastal residents.
Unsettled weather gripped the UAE Tuesday evening, March 31, as hail fell over Abu Dhabi's Dhafra region and heavy rain lashed parts of Dubai and surrounding areas. Showers cascaded across Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and portions of Abu Dhabi earlier in the afternoon, extending into different corners of the country as the storm system moved through.
Authorities responded promptly, with Abu Dhabi Police lowering speed limits to 100 km/h on Maktoum Bin Rashid Road between Al Mafraq Bridge and Ghantoot, urging motorists to drive cautiously.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported that this atmospheric disturbance would continue impacting weather conditions through Tuesday night and into Wednesday. However, the agency clarified that the current system is less intense than last Friday’s storm, which brought widespread thunderstorm activity, lightning, and significant waterlogging in various regions.
Behind the Scenes of Tuesday’s Torrential Rain
The ongoing rain is being fueled by a surface low-pressure system interacting with an upper-level atmospheric trough. This dynamic is drawing moisture-rich air across the UAE, leading to cloud formation and scattered showers in affected areas. According to the NCM, cumulus clouds will continue forming into the early hours of April 1, with heavier downpours expected over eastern and northern regions.
Northwesterly to southeasterly winds, clocking speeds between 10 and 25 km/h and occasionally gusting to 40 km/h, are adding to the turbulence. These strong gusts are stirring up dust and sand in open areas, temporarily reducing visibility for motorists and residents.
Wednesday, April 1: Stormy Weather to Persist
A more active day lies ahead as Wednesday’s forecasts predict cloudy to overcast skies punctuated by sporadic showers. Areas in the east and north, particularly Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and parts of the Hajar Mountains, could face intermittent bursts of heavier rainfall.
Temperatures will dip slightly, especially in western regions, offering a brief reprieve from the recent warm spell. Meanwhile, northwesterly winds are expected to intensify, sustaining speeds of 15 to 25 km/h with gusts reaching up to 45 km/h. These stronger gusts could create blowing dust and sand, further challenging visibility in open terrains. Drivers are urged to remain vigilant.
Maritime conditions will also deteriorate Wednesday, with rough seas forecast in the Arabian Gulf and moderate to rough waves anticipated in the Sea of Oman. The NCM advises caution for maritime operators and residents engaging in coastal activities.
Thursday, April 2: Gradual Improvement Expected
Conditions are forecast to improve over Thursday as the storm system weakens and moves away. Fair to partly cloudy skies will dominate, although some low cloud patches may linger over eastern areas during the morning.
Humidity levels will begin rising Thursday night through Friday morning, potentially leading to fog or mist formation in coastal and inland areas. Motorists navigating highways or elevated roads during early hours should exercise caution as visibility could steeply decline.
Winds will ease, blowing lightly to moderately from northwest to southwest, with gusts nudging 40 km/h. Sea conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman are projected to stabilize—from moderate to rough ranges.
Friday, April 3: Settled Conditions Return
By Friday, the UAE is expected to enjoy mostly settled weather, with fair to partly cloudy skies prevailing. Overnight mist could still form in select coastal and inland regions heading into Saturday morning. Wind speeds will further calm, ranging from 10 to 20 km/h with occasional gusts of up to 35 km/h. Sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Sea of Oman will also moderate further, easing to slight levels.
Stay Safe: Precautions During Unsettled Weather
As storms pass through the region, the NCM and UAE authorities emphasize safety as a top priority. Drivers are advised to slow down, avoid crossing flooded wadis, and steer clear of low-lying roads prone to fast flooding. Residents near coastlines should refrain from venturing close to shorelines during rough sea periods.
Keeping emergency contacts handy and staying updated through official NCM advisories is critical during unsettled weather episodes. While disruptions may persist for now, the weather pattern is expected to localize and improve steadily starting Thursday.
AI contributed to the creation of this article.