Late Monday night and into Tuesday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced severe thunderstorms, accompanied by heavy rainfall and powerful winds. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had issued prior warnings about the unstable weather conditions, which are expected to persist until Wednesday. Residents in various regions, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah, were awakened by the rumbling of thunder and flashes of lightning as the storms swept across the country.
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Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure
The severe weather conditions have led to disruptions in transportation and infrastructure across the UAE. Reports emerged of landslides causing road collapses in northern emirates, including a significant landslide in Al Qua, south of Al Ain, which transformed a portion of the road into what resembled a waterfall due to heavy rains and overflowing wadis. In Sharjah, streets were inundated, causing difficulties for motorists and residents navigating through flooded areas.
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Safety Precautions and Advisories
Authorities in the UAE have issued safety advisories to residents in light of the adverse weather conditions. Dubai Police reminded drivers to exercise caution on the roads, advising the use of low-beam headlights for visibility, ensuring brakes are functioning properly after passing through water puddles, and avoiding wadis during rainfall. Additionally, residents were urged to reduce speed, stay away from road edges, and use the external air circulation feature to prevent fog formation.
Given the current weather conditions across the country, characterized by rains, strong winds, thunder, lightning, and sometimes hail, reducing visibility, road users are advised to abide by the following guidelines. Let's strive together for a safer and more secure community. pic.twitter.com/YSPKyaTEpC
— Dubai Police???? ??? (@DubaiPoliceHQ) April 15, 2024
Impacts on Work and Education
In response to the severe weather, precautionary measures have been implemented across various sectors. All government employees in the UAE have been instructed to work remotely on April 16 to ensure their safety. Similarly, private schools in Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, and Umm Al Quwain have transitioned to remote learning to minimize risks to students and staff. Furthermore, Dubai Parks and Resorts announced the closure of the amusement park for the day due to adverse weather conditions.
UAE: Continued Monitoring and Assistance
As the UAE continues to grapple with the impacts of severe thunderstorms, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation and providing assistance where needed. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines to mitigate risks associated with the ongoing inclement weather.
Severe thunderstorms have brought heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, and strong winds to the UAE, disrupting daily life and prompting safety measures across the country. As residents and authorities navigate through the challenges posed by the unstable weather conditions, prioritizing safety and taking precautionary actions remain paramount to ensuring the well-being of everyone in the Emirates.
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Credits: Instagram – @storm_ae
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