UAE rain alert: Dh2,000 fines, areas to avoid, safety rules residents must know

As rains continue across parts of the UAE and a second wave of cloud activity is forecast, multiple authorities have issued safety advisories, ranging from strict fines for violations to precautionary guidelines aimed at protecting lives and property.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), after midnight, a new wave of clouds is expected to form from the west, moving towards Al Dhafra and Abu Dhabi during the day on Tuesday.

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Authorities across the country have urged residents to remain cautious, particularly in flood-prone areas and on the roads.

Drive with caution

The Ministry of Interior and police authorities have called on motorists to:

• Reduce speed due to water accumulation

• Maintain a safe distance between vehicles

• Use headlights and windscreen wipers for clear visibility

• Avoid distractions such as mobile phone use

• Refrain from sudden stops or dangerous swerving.

Strict penalties apply

• Gathering near wadis, dams or flood zones
  Fine: Dh1,000 | 6 traffic points

• Entering flooded valleys (regardless of risk level)
  Fine: Dh2,000 | 23 traffic points | 60-day vehicle impoundment

• Obstructing emergency or rescue operations
  Fine: Dh1,000 | 4 traffic points | Possible impoundment

Avoid these areas

Authorities have reiterated the importance of staying away from hazardous locations. Residents are advised to:

• Avoid valleys, low-lying areas and flood-prone zones

• Not attempt crossing flooded wadis

• Stay away from beaches, the sea and mountainous areas during unstable weather

• Avoid walking in or allowing children to play in pooled water.

Electrical safety warnings

The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy has cautioned against electrical hazards during wet conditions. Residents should:

• Avoid touching street lighting poles or exposed wires

• Stay away from electrical installations where water has accumulated

• Refrain from standing under trees or near electrical poles during rainfall.

Home and outdoor safety measures

Dubai Municipality has outlined steps to reduce risks during adverse weather:

• Ensure electrical connections are properly secured and insulated

• Clean internal rainwater drains

• Use designated drainage systems to dispose of accumulated water

• Do not open sewage manholes to drain rainwater

• Secure outdoor furniture and remove loose items from balconies and rooftops

• Avoid walking near trees, unstable signboards, temporary fences and construction sites

• Stay away from areas with accumulated water

Residents can report water accumulation or fallen trees by calling 800900 or via WhatsApp.

Stay updated

Authorities have stressed the importance of following official updates and instructions as weather conditions evolve, and urged residents to contact emergency services when necessary.

Written by

Sahim Salim Staff Writer

• 

As Associate Editor, Sahim Salim helps tell the UAE story like no one else does — and leads a team of reporters that asks the questions to get news and headlines that matter.