Authorities warn of strong winds and hail as unstable weather persists, urging the public to exercise caution.
Dubai: Residents across the emirates have faced several days of unsettled weather, with successive waves of rainfall since the weekend. According to the NCM, one final wave is expected before conditions ease on Saturday, and authorities are urging the public to stay prepared and exercise caution through Friday, March 27.
Satellite imagery and weather radar show a broad belt of cloud formations moving across the UAE, affecting multiple emirates.
Ongoing unstable weather: Today’s forecast
Thursday’s daytime brings temporary relief as the low-pressure system weakens. The NCM reports that rainfall during this period will be more scattered, occurring mainly over the islands and parts of the northern regions at intervals.
Satellite imagery and weather radar show a broad belt of cloud formations steadily moving from the western regions through Al Dhafra toward Abu Dhabi, Dubai, the northern emirates, Al Ain, and the eastern areas, including Fujairah.
The final wave: Thursday night into Friday
The NCM reports that another wave of rainfall will develop over the western regions late Thursday night, moving through Al Dhafra and Abu Dhabi in the early hours of Friday. By Friday daytime, its impact is expected to reach the northern emirates, Al Ain, and the eastern areas.
This final wave is forecast to bring:
- Heavy rainfall
- Lightning and thunderstorms
- Possible hail in isolated areas
Cloud cover is expected to gradually thin through Friday night. According to the NCM, skies should start clearing by Saturday, though active to occasionally strong northwesterly winds will continue, especially over open waters, along with a noticeable drop in temperatures.
Abu Dhabi alert: Authorities’ advisory
The NCM has issued a formal weather alert for Abu Dhabi emirate—including Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra—effective from Thursday, March 26 at 10 pm until Friday, March 27 at 4 pm.
Residents in these areas should be prepared for:
- Intermittent rainfall of varying intensity
- Occasional fresh to strong wind gusts, raising dust and sand and reducing horizontal visibility
- Hail in limited areas
Public safety advisory
Residents are advised to drive cautiously and follow adjusted speed limits, avoid valleys, carry first-aid kits, and prepare alternative sources of light.
Winds, dust, and sea conditions
Southeasterly to northeasterly winds are expected to shift northwest over the coming days, ranging from moderate to strong, especially near active cloud formations. The NCM warns that these winds may carry dust and sand, reducing horizontal visibility across deserts and highways.
Sea conditions remain rough in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. Mariners and recreational seafarers are urged to stay ashore until the weather system passes.
Road safety and emergency response
Emergency response teams have been deployed nationwide. The Ministry of Interior advises residents to avoid unnecessary travel, reduce speeds, maintain safe following distances, and stay clear of low-lying areas and valleys.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has clarified that the thunder associated with this system is a normal feature of such weather events. Any formal emergency alerts will be issued through the National Early Warning System.
When will conditions improve?
According to the NCM, conditions are expected to ease from Friday night. By Saturday, cloud cover will decrease across the country, bringing clearer skies, although cooler temperatures and northwesterly winds are expected in the following days.
For the latest updates, residents should monitor the NCM’s official channels and follow all guidance issued by UAE authorities.
