In an unusual turn of weather events, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is experiencing atypical rainfall, prompting the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) to issue a yellow alert for various regions. The unexpected weather conditions have led to a series of advisories and warnings, urging residents to exercise caution and take necessary precautions.
The NCM has forecasted a day with intermittent rainfall, particularly in Northern and Eastern areas, accompanied by light to moderate winds that may intensify over the sea. A convective cloud formation alert has been issued, indicating potential rainfall, strong winds with speeds of up to 55 kmph, blowing dust, reduced horizontal visibility, and rough sea conditions. The alert is effective from 9 pm on Wednesday until 6 pm on Friday.
Last night, several parts of the UAE experienced rainfall, with the weather conditions expected to persist. Temperatures may reach up to 32ºC in certain areas, with Abu Dhabi expecting a high of 31ºC and Dubai at 25ºC. Conversely, temperatures may drop to as low as 20ºC in Abu Dhabi, 22ºC in Dubai, and 10ºC in internal areas. Humidity levels will vary, ranging from 35 to 70 per cent in Abu Dhabi and from 55 to 85 per cent in Dubai.
At sea, conditions are predicted to be moderate to rough in the Arabian Gulf and slight to moderate in the Oman Sea.
In response to the unexpected weather conditions, Dubai Police issued a public safety warning early Friday morning. The advisory urged residents to stay clear of beaches and areas prone to flash floods, exercise caution while driving, and adhere to the advice of authorities to ensure their safety.
The National Ambulance service also joined in, reminding residents to take extra precautions during unstable weather conditions. The public is advised to be cautious when driving in the rain and avoid potentially hazardous areas such as valleys, running streams, and water ponds.
Residents across the UAE took to social media platforms to share visuals of heavy downpours and lightning illuminating the sky. The unexpected weather phenomenon sparked a significant online presence, with users sharing their experiences and observations.
The UAE government, anticipating the impact of heavy rainfall, called on the private sector to implement flexible working arrangements on Friday. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation urged companies to allow for flexible work patterns, considering the prevailing weather conditions. The emphasis was placed on ensuring that necessary measures are taken to comply with occupational health and safety requirements for outdoor work.
Abu Dhabi Police also utilized social media platforms to advise motorists to exercise caution due to the rainy weather. The authorities called on drivers to follow changing speed limits displayed on electronic information boards to enhance road safety.
In light of the current unusual weather conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), prioritizing safety is paramount for residents and visitors alike. The combination of rainfall, strong winds, and potential disruptions necessitates a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of individuals and communities. Here are essential safety tips to navigate through the ongoing weather events:
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest weather forecasts and alerts issued by official meteorological authorities such as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Follow their guidelines and advisories to make informed decisions.
- Avoid Risk-prone Areas: Stay clear of beaches, valleys, and areas prone to flash floods. Do not venture into locations with the potential for hazardous conditions, and adhere to safety warnings issued by local authorities.
- Exercise Caution on Roads: If driving is necessary, exercise extreme caution on the roads. Follow traffic advisories, reduce speed, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Be prepared for changing road conditions and potential visibility issues.
- Flexible Working Arrangements: If possible, consider flexible working arrangements. The UAE government’s recommendation to the private sector for implementing flexible work patterns during adverse weather conditions reflects a commitment to the safety of the workforce.
- Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency contact numbers, including those of relevant authorities, hospitals, and emergency services. In case of any emergencies, swift access to help is crucial.
- Social Media Awareness: Utilize social media platforms responsibly to share information and stay connected with official updates. Avoid spreading unverified information, and rely on credible sources for real-time updates.
- Prepare for Power Outages: In the event of heavy rainfall, power outages may occur. Ensure you have essential supplies such as flashlights, batteries, and a basic emergency kit to handle potential disruptions.
- Check-in on Vulnerable Individuals: Reach out to neighbors, especially those who may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly or individuals with special needs. Confirm their well-being and offer assistance if needed.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Secure loose outdoor items that may be affected by strong winds. This includes patio furniture, decorations, and any items that could pose a risk if displaced.
- Follow First Aid Practices: Brush up on basic first aid practices. In case of injuries or emergencies, having knowledge of essential first aid procedures can make a significant difference until professional help arrives.
Remember, safety is a collective responsibility, and everyone plays a role in ensuring a secure environment for themselves and those around them. By staying informed, being cautious, and adhering to safety guidelines, individuals can navigate through the current weather conditions with resilience and preparedness.
In conclusion, the current weather situation in the UAE serves as a valuable lesson in adaptability and resilience. The collaborative efforts between meteorological agencies, government bodies, emergency services, and the public contribute to a comprehensive approach in addressing challenges posed by unexpected weather events. The ongoing commitment to public safety, flexibility in work arrangements, and the utilization of technology for effective communication collectively define the UAE’s response to this unique weather phenomenon. As the situation evolves, the nation’s ability to adapt and learn from these experiences will further strengthen its preparedness for future unforeseen events, fostering a more resilient and united community.