WATCH: It's raining in RAK, sandstorm hits Dubai, Sharjah

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WATCH: Its raining in RAK, sandstorm hits Dubai, Sharjah

Ras Al Khaimah - Light to moderate rain lashed the eastern part of the UAE on Thursday afternoon.

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Published: Thu 24 Nov 2016, 4:13 PM

Last updated: Fri 25 Nov 2016, 12:13 AM

Moderate to heavy showers lashed different parts of the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah on Thursday, mainly in the northern areas, while puddles of water were seen everywhere after the downpour.

Meanwhile, a sandstorm hit parts of Dubai and Sharjah late in the afternoon, bringing down visibility to a few hundred metres, and slowing traffic to a crawl.

According to Ras Al Khaimah residents, heavy rain fell on the Jais mountain, the highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah.

"Splendid and scenic falls of water can be seen from distance at the Jais mountain," said Mohammed Ali Saeed Al Shamali, an Emirati.

"Strong winds and massive clouds are seen in the sky, mainly on the Jais mountain and nearby wadis (valleys) such as Wadi Al Beeh," said Abdullah Sharif, an Egyptian.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology, the weather is likely to be partially cloudy over the country in general, with chances of rainfall over parts of the country, and a likelihood of thunder towards the north.

Photo by Mohammed Ali Saeed Al Shamali

Fresh northwesterly winds will prevail during the day in general, becoming strong over the sea. Sea is tough to very rough in the Arabian Gulf, and moderate to rough in Oman Sea.

More rain-laden clouds on islands, coasts and western areas, and moderate to heavy showers that which might be thunder rains are expected. A significant fall in temperatures is also expected in general.

The RAK Police has, meanwhile, deployed more patrols to control traffic flow at the areas hit with the seasonal showers, and urged drivers to take due precautionary measures.

Traffic patrols have been deployed on all internal roads and highways to help the people, ensure traffic flow, and tow any flooded or nonfunctioning vehicles due to the showers and flooded valleys, according to police sources.

"All motorists need to be alert, focus and careful, and reduce speed on the road during the rain," they said, noting that the road to the Jais Mountain has been partially blocked for people's safety.

It is so dangerous for people to go out in this unstable weather, they warned. "It is so risky to go out or drive fast under the heavy showers, thunder storm, and thunders."

Seafarers, beach and valleys goers, and motorists are urged to be more cautious during the unstable weather. "Residents of the areas much exposed to pouring showers and strong winds, are urged to be careful, and immediately call (999) in case of emergency."

The RAK department of public works and services has also deployed a big number of tankers to suck out the accumulated ponds of rainwater, particularly at the low level areas and major roads.

The public has been requested to report big ponds of water, mainly those accumulating in front of their houses, apart from some low-level areas and side roads."

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com
Video: Rahul Gajjar/Khaleej Times


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