Early Saturday morning, a dense fog descended upon the United Arab Emirates, casting a mysterious veil over the country.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had forewarned of lower temperatures and heavy rains for the upcoming week, but the sudden onset of the fog caught many by surprise.
The NCM swiftly issued a red alert across the nation, cautioning residents about the perilous conditions ahead.
The advisory emphasized the likelihood of fog formation with severely reduced horizontal visibility, posing potential hazards for commuters and travelers alike.
In response to the hazardous conditions, authorities took proactive measures to ensure public safety.
Sheikh Zayed Road, a vital artery in the UAE’s transportation network, experienced reduced visibility, prompting authorities to urge motorists to exercise caution, reduce speed, and utilize fog lights for enhanced visibility.
The Abu Dhabi Police also sprung into action, issuing multiple advisories and implementing reduced speed limits on various roads to encourage safer driving practices amidst the challenging weather conditions.
The blanket of fog stretched its reach to encompass cities like Sharjah, where residents emerged bundled in jackets for their morning routines, navigating through the ethereal white haze that enveloped the cityscape.
Despite the fog’s pervasive presence, today’s forecast offers a glimmer of hope for clearer skies ahead. The NCM predicts a day that will transition from fair to partly cloudy, with clouds thickening by nightfall over certain coastal and northern areas.
Moderate winds are expected to sweep through the region, offering a reprieve from the stagnant air caused by the dense fog. Additionally, there is a possibility of light rainfall on Sunday morning, offering a welcome respite from the dry conditions.
Temperature fluctuations remain a hallmark of the UAE’s climate, with highs reaching up to 30ºC in some areas.
However, as night falls, temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as 20ºC in Abu Dhabi, 19ºC in Dubai, and a brisk 7ºC in mountainous regions, reminding residents of the country’s diverse climatic extremes.
Humidity levels are anticipated to range from 35 to 75 per cent in Abu Dhabi and from 55 to 90 per cent in Dubai, contributing to the atmospheric moisture that exacerbates fog formation.
As maritime activities continue, conditions at sea are expected to remain slight in both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea, offering a semblance of tranquility amidst the atmospheric turbulence on land.
In the face of nature’s unpredictable whims, the UAE stands resilient, adapting to the ever-changing weather patterns with vigilance and preparedness.
As residents navigate through the fog-laden landscape, safety remains paramount, with authorities and individuals alike taking proactive measures to ensure a secure passage through the misty veil that shrouds the nation.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members