Cool, wet weather persists across UAE with heavy rain / AI Generated Image
Residents in the Northern Emirates woke up to the rhythmic sound of heavy rain today as a significant weather system moved across the region. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported intense downpours specifically hitting areas like Khorfakkan, Masafi, and Al Manama. While the rain brought a welcome drop in temperature and a refreshing “winter vibe,” it also turned streets into temporary streams, particularly in the mountainous regions of Fujairah.The showers weren’t just a light drizzle; in many areas, the rain was accompanied by flashes of lightning and the distant rumble of thunder. For those living on the east coast, the grey skies provided a dramatic backdrop to the start of the weekend, but they also signaled a need for immediate caution as the volume of water quickly filled the natural depressions in the landscape.
National weather alerts
The NCM has issued both yellow and red alerts for large parts of the Northern and Eastern UAE. These color-coded warnings indicate that residents should be “on the lookout” and “vigilant” as convective clouds continue to form. These clouds are the primary engines behind the heavy rainfall and are expected to move further inland, potentially bringing scattered showers to parts of Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah as the day progresses. Weather experts explain that this surge in rain is caused by an extension of a surface low pressure, combined with an upper-air low pressure. This mix creates unstable conditions that are perfect for rain-bearing clouds to cluster. Wind speeds are also expected to pick up, reaching up to 40 km/h, which may kick up dust and reduce visibility on highways, making the commute between emirates a bit more challenging than usual.
What to expect in the coming days?
The winter weather pattern bringing rain is typical for this season in the UAE, and forecasters expect it to last through the weekend and into next week.
- Humidity levels will remain elevated at night and mornings, creating chances for fog and mist.
- Temperatures will continue to be cooler than average, especially in the northern and mountainous regions.
- Cloud cover and scattered showers might extend beyond rainfall areas, making weather conditions changeable day to day.
Residents and visitors should keep up with modern updates from the NCM and follow official safety guidance as weather evolves. With unsettled weather expected to continue, residents across the UAE are advised to stay alert and follow official updates from the National Centre of Meteorology. Drivers should remain cautious on wet roads and during periods of reduced visibility, particularly in northern and eastern regions. Weather conditions may change quickly, with intermittent showers and cloudy skies likely through the day. Authorities urge the public to prioritise safety and plan travel accordingly.
