UAE Weather Alert: Dust Storm and Reduced Visibility
The UAE is bracing for another round of challenging weather conditions, with a dust storm significantly impacting visibility across the country. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued an orange alert, warning of hazardous weather events and urging residents to heed official advice. Strong northwesterly winds, reaching speeds of up to 50kmph, are causing blowing sand and dust, reducing visibility to dangerously low levels in some areas – as low as 100 meters in some instances.
Hazardous Conditions and Safety Precautions
The NCM advises residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. This includes staying indoors where possible, sealing doors and windows to prevent dust from entering buildings, and avoiding direct exposure to the dust. Motorists are urged to drive cautiously, reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and absolutely refrain from using phones or recording videos while driving. Abu Dhabi Police have echoed these warnings, highlighting the critical need for focused attention on the roads during these hazardous conditions.
UAE Weather Forecast: April 16th - 19th
The current forecast predicts partly cloudy and dusty conditions will continue through at least April 17th. Strong northwesterly winds will persist, causing blowing dust and sand, especially in northern and eastern areas. Seas will be rough to very rough in the Arabian Gulf and moderate to rough in the Oman Sea. While conditions are expected to improve slightly by April 19th, residents should remain alert for potential changes in the forecast.
- Wednesday, April 16th: Partly cloudy and dusty. Strong winds (15-30kmph, reaching 50kmph). Rough seas.
- Thursday, April 17th: Partly cloudy and dusty. Strong winds (15-30kmph, reaching 50kmph). Rough seas.
- Friday, April 18th: Fair to partly cloudy. Strong winds (15-30kmph, reaching 45kmph). Rough seas.
- Saturday, April 19th: Fair to partly cloudy. Winds (15-30kmph, reaching 40kmph). Moderate seas.
Staying Informed and Safe
The NCM urges everyone to stay informed about the latest weather updates through official channels. Regularly checking weather reports and adhering to the safety guidelines issued by authorities is crucial for ensuring personal safety during this period of challenging weather. Remember to check road conditions before traveling and adjust your plans accordingly. Staying informed and prepared is key to navigating this weather event safely.