Unstable weather surprised parts of the UAE as light to heavy rain, hail, and dusty skies swept across eastern areas including Ras Al Khaimah and Khor Fakkan. The NCM issued alerts, urging motorists to drive carefully and residents to stay updated on weather changes.
Dubai: Residents in different parts of the UAE experienced unstable weather on Tuesday afternoon, as the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) reported rain, hail, and dust affecting several regions.
According to updates shared by the NCM, light rain fell over Showkah and Wadi Al Tuwa in Ras Al Khaimah, while Khor Fakkan Road leading toward Shees in Sharjah also witnessed showers. Meanwhile, some eastern areas saw heavier rainfall, accompanied by small hail.
The Met Office issued yellow and orange alerts for convective clouds forming over eastern regions, including Khor Fakkan, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Convective clouds are often associated with unstable weather, bringing sudden rain showers, thunderstorms, or even hail.
Motorists were advised to drive carefully due to dusty conditions, especially in Dubai, where the skies turned hazy during the afternoon hours. The NCM reminded residents to stay updated on weather alerts and follow safety guidelines while on the road. Reduced visibility caused by blowing dust can increase the risk of accidents, so drivers are encouraged to slow down and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
Residents living in the affected areas shared photos and videos of the rain and hail on social media. In Wadi Al Ejeili, located in Ras Al Khaimah, moderate to heavy rain was reported, along with small hailstones covering the ground. Many expressed relief at the rain, as it provided a brief break from the intense summer heat.
While the rain brought cooler weather, it also highlighted the unpredictable nature of the UAE’s summer climate, which can quickly shift from hot and dry conditions to rain and thunderstorms. This type of weather is common during the summer months, especially in the eastern and mountainous regions of the country, where convective clouds often form due to rising hot air.
The NCM urged people planning outdoor activities to stay alert and avoid areas prone to flooding, such as valleys and low-lying regions, especially when heavy rain is expected. They also recommended keeping an eye on official weather updates through the NCM’s website and social media channels.
Dusty weather continued to affect parts of Dubai and surrounding areas through the afternoon and early evening. Such dusty conditions are usually caused by strong winds that lift sand and dust into the air, reducing visibility and affecting air quality. Residents with respiratory conditions were advised to take extra care and stay indoors if possible.
The NCM’s forecast for the coming days suggests that similar weather patterns could continue, with chances of rain and thunder over some eastern and southern areas, along with occasional dusty winds in different parts of the country. Temperatures are still expected to remain high, typical for the summer months, but rain showers could bring temporary relief.
Local authorities have also reminded the public not to take unnecessary risks, such as driving through flooded roads or standing under trees during lightning. Safety remains the top priority during such weather changes.
Overall, while rain and hail are not unusual in the eastern and northern regions of the UAE during summer, the sudden shift from clear skies to rainfall caught some residents by surprise. Many welcomed the brief coolness that the showers brought, despite the inconvenience caused by dusty conditions in urban areas.
The NCM continues to monitor weather developments closely and encourages everyone to follow the latest updates to stay safe. As the summer progresses, occasional rain and dust storms remain possible, making it important for residents and visitors alike to be prepared for changing weather.
For the latest updates, residents can check the NCM’s website, mobile app, or official social media accounts, which provide real-time alerts and weather maps across the country.
