The UAE experienced an unexpected change in weather as heavy rain lashed several parts of the country over the weekend, catching residents by surprise.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued orange and yellow alerts, urging residents to exercise caution due to unstable weather conditions.
Rain in UAE: Fine announced for weather-related violations
In response to the unpredictable downpour, authorities have warned against reckless driving behaviour, particularly near flooded areas, by imposing strict penalties, including a Dhs2,000 fine, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle confiscation.
For most UAE residents, the weekend began with a cool and cloudy weather forecast. However, by noon, rain started pouring down in various regions, affecting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and all other emirates. The sudden onset of heavy showers took many by surprise, leading to concerns over road safety and potential flooding in certain areas.
Abu Dhabi police warnings for reckless drivers
Amidst the unstable weather, the Abu Dhabi Police took a proactive approach by issuing an alert aimed at ensuring road safety. They urged drivers to exercise extreme caution and avoid approaching wadis, streams, or any body of water, as the rain could result in flooded valleys that pose significant risks to drivers.
Authorities have emphasized that entering flooded valleys, irrespective of the perceived danger, is a serious violation that will not be taken lightly.
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To deter reckless behaviour during adverse weather conditions, authorities have implemented stringent penalties, including a Dhs2,000 fine, 23 black points on the driver’s license, and a 60-day vehicle confiscation.
The fines and black points are intended to serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during inclement weather, safeguarding both the drivers and the general public.
The UAE witnessed scattered heavy rainfall and hailstorms in various regions on Saturday, and the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecasted that these unsettled weather conditions will persist until Wednesday.
Rain in Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman
Rainfall was reported in locations such as Al Ajban and Al Khatim in Abu Dhabi, Nahil, Al Hayer, and Sweihan in Al Ain, Wadi Kob in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Tawayen in Fujairah, and Al Bataeh, Mleiha, Al Faya, and Faly. Additionally, hailstones were observed in Al Dhaid in Sharjah, Manama in Ajman, and other parts of the country as confirmed by the NCM.
The lowest recorded temperature on Saturday was 14.2°C in Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, at 3:45 am, as per the NCM.
The weather forecast for the upcoming days indicates partly cloudy to occasionally cloudy conditions, with the possibility of cumulus clouds and intermittent rain in coastal, northern, and eastern areas.
Winds are expected to be light to moderate, blowing from the northwestern direction and occasionally fresh, with speeds ranging from 15 to 25 up to 40 km/h. The sea conditions will vary from moderate to turbulent in the Arabian Gulf and light to moderate in the Sea of Oman.
