Storm hits life in UAE

The dusty weather is expected to continue today as well, according to the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM).

From flight delays to road and park closures, life in the UAE was severely affected as dust storms engulfed the country on Sunday. Several flights from Dubai reported delays of up to 20 minutes due to the low visibility caused by unstable weather conditions.
The dusty weather is expected to continue today as well, according to the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM). The winds will not be as strong as it was on Sunday, but "there will be continued dust suspension in the air". Even though the weather is expected to improve tomorrow, hazy conditions will prevail. A weather expert from the NCM has recommended that residents step outside only after covering their faces.
A statement from Emirates airline said: "There has been no effect on the overall operation, but we can confirm the delays have been minimal."
In Sharjah, 16 accidents were reported due to poor visibility and accumulation of sand on the roads. The Sharjah Police had to temporarily close a new road in Al Hamriya as desert sand had taken over the road. Authorities had to close all the parks in the emirate to ensure safety of residents.
Several trees in the northern emirates were uprooted, while signboards fell off due to the strong winds.
Elsewhere in India, a powerful dust storm had hit New Delhi resulting in diversion of 40 incoming flights to the Indira Gandhi International Airport. 
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Dubai