UAE: Heavy rains, thunderstorms hit all 7 Emirates; residents told to avoid valleys, beaches

Here is the full list of areas where it has rained so far; unstable weather alerts issued for most parts of the country

The UAE’s Ministry of Interior (MoI) and other authorities have advised residents to exercise caution while driving as heavy to moderate rains hit all seven emirates on Wednesday. Thunderstorms have lashed some areas as well.

According to an update posted by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the rainy and dusty conditions will prevail at least till 11.30pm tonight.

In an alert, the MoI warned of “fluctuations in weather conditions” and low visibility with heavy rains, and high-speed winds kicking up dust.

“Avoid valleys and places where water flows,” the ministry advised. Heavy rains usually result in valleys flooding as water gushes down the mountains.

The NCM urged motorists to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. It also issued code yellow and orange alerts that cover most parts of the country:

Authorities in Ras Al Khaimah warned that trying to cross valleys during heavy rains may cause vehicles to drift, resulting in accidents.

Residents have also been told to avoid going to beaches and the sea.

Heavy to moderate rains have hit:

The UAE’s Storm Centre posted this video from Fujairah:

The country will receive rainfall of different intensities with thunder and lightning at times today. A video the Storm Centre posted captures lightning in Ras Al Khaimah:

The unstable weather will continue tomorrow, with a “significant decrease” in temperatures. Friday and Saturday will also see some rainfall over coastal, Northern and Eastern areas.

Police on alert

Police forces and emergency response teams across the emirates are on high alert, assuring the public that they are ready for any incidents.

Maj-Gen Ali Abdullah bin Alwan Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ras Al Khaimah Police and head of the local emergency and crisis management team for the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, said patrols were dispatched on roads to ensure that motorists won't drive near valleys.

Reiterating the UAE Government's advisory, the officer urged the public to prioritise safety and put all road trips to the sea on hold.

The Sharjah Police also confirmed that their team is working around the clock to monitor the weather situation and ensure public safety.

Police in the emirate have announced their readiness and adequate measures have been taken, including dispatching traffic patrols and coordinating with partners to ensure traffic safety.

A top official from the force called on residents to stay away areas that are prone to flooding.

The public is urged to exercise caution, stay away from valleys, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and avoid distractions while driving.

Drivers are also urged to exercise caution, stay focused, and leave a safe distance from other vehicles.

In case of any emergencies, the public can get in touch with the police by dialling 999 or 901.

The MoI and National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) had earlier announced the country’s readiness to “face any emergency that may arise as a result of the prevailing weather condition and its fluctuations”.

Residents were told follow official weather forecasts and adhere to instructions issued by the authorities.

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