Dubai: The United Arab Emirates is grappling with severe weather conditions, prompting authorities to issue warnings and implement precautionary measures across several regions.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has alerted residents of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to brace for unsettled weather conditions over the next 48 hours. Heavy rainfall is expected to persist until Wednesday, accompanied by potential hailstorms.
Ahmed Habib, an expert from the National Centre of Meteorology, stated, "There is not only a likelihood of significant rainfall but also a possibility of hailstorms in places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates."
Residents have been advised to park their vehicles in safe and elevated locations to avoid flood-prone areas. The weather department forecasts convective clouds, which bring rainfall and lightning, to form over coastal areas, particularly in the north and east of the country.
Moderate to heavy rain, along with thunder and lightning, has been reported across various parts of the UAE. As a result, several roads have been flooded, and flights have been cancelled or delayed at Dubai International Airport. Dubai's Tram service experienced disruptions, as confirmed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Traffic disruptions were further exacerbated by road cave-ins due to heavy rains in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, and Al Qou. Consequently, the UAE Football Association has postponed all matches in "local competitions" scheduled for Tuesday.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, announced on his social media account that private schools in Dubai would switch to distance learning, and government departments would operate remotely.
In addition to the UAE, other countries in the Gulf region have also been affected by storms. Oman experienced deadly flash flooding, resulting in at least 14 fatalities, including nine children. Kuwait and Saudi Arabia are also preparing for potential storms.
According to Ahmed Habib, "The same low-pressure system influencing Oman is also impacting the UAE. However, due to differing topographies, the intensity varies. Oman features extensive Hajar mountain ranges spanning from North to South, resulting in more cloud cover and rainfall compared to the UAE."
Given the expected weather conditions, the Ras Al Khaimah Emergency, Crisis, and Disaster Team has opted for remote learning in schools on Tuesday and Wednesday. Furthermore, all parks and beaches in Ras Al Khaimah city have been temporarily closed until further notice.