Watch: Lightning strikes parts of UAE amid heavy rains ahead of weekend

UAE residents have been under a spell of great weather over the past week and with the weekend just a few hours away for some, they were welcomed with lightning and light, moderate to heavy rains on Friday.

According to National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) in the UAE, rains were recorded in six of the seven emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain. Rain was also recorded in Khor Fakkan.

The Met department recorded the first spell of rain over the Ras Al Khaimah Airport at 2.24am.

Residents woke up to a cloudy and windy morning followed by the rain which continued through the afternoon.

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On Friday afternoon, near zero visibility was reported on some roads in the country. A KT reader shared a video of a sandstorm on Emirates Road, heading towards Ras Al Khaimah.

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The Met department said that fresh northwesterly winds, with speeds of 40kmph, was blowing dust and sand, reducing visibility to less than 2000 metres at times over some areas from 3.30pm until 7pm.

The weather forecast earlier in the day said that it will be partly cloudy to cloudy at times, accompanied with some convective clouds over some Northern and Eastern areas.

NCM also said that there is a probability of rainfall and a drop in temperatures will also take place, especially westward.

A yellow and orange alert was also issued for parts of the country. The alert informs residents of rough sea conditions, the formation of convective clouds, possible rainfall and blowing dust causing reduced visibility.

Authorities across the different emirates urged motorists to drive safely during rain. They also asked drivers to reduce speed limits and maintain a safe distance.

Authorities also urged motorists to adhere to safety rules, avoid reckless driving and drifting, and follow traffic laws during rainfall.

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