Abu Dhabi, UAE – A thick fog descended on several parts of Abu Dhabi on Wednesday morning, significantly reducing visibility and prompting the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) to issue both red and yellow alerts across the emirate.
These weather warnings, which were issued as early as 2am, remain in effect until 9am today, with the most severe foggy conditions impacting areas in the Al Dhafra region.
The sudden onset of dense fog disrupted morning commutes and posed a hazard for drivers, as visibility dropped to near-zero in some locations.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, reduce speed, and use hazard lights when necessary. The fog also affected local airports, with flight schedules possibly facing minor delays.
Alongside the fog, a noticeable drop in temperatures is expected across the country, with parts of Abu Dhabi seeing temperatures as low as 18 degrees Celsius.
This is a stark contrast to the usual warm weather the UAE is known for. Dubai, however, is experiencing milder weather, with temperatures reaching up to 32 degrees Celsius during the day and dropping to a cooler 24 degrees Celsius at night.
Humidity levels will rise as the night progresses, peaking in the early morning hours, adding to the already challenging conditions for residents.
As the fog lifts later in the day, the weather will remain cool but clear, with temperatures expected to stabilize by mid-morning. However, residents should brace for similar foggy conditions on Thursday morning in some coastal and inland areas.
Sea conditions are also affected, with the waves in the Arabian Gulf forecast to be light to moderate, while those in the Sea of Oman are expected to remain light. Fishermen and boat operators are advised to exercise caution when venturing out.
The NCM has urged the public to stay informed and follow safety guidelines during these unusual weather conditions. The fog is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the UAE’s winter weather, which can bring rapid changes, especially in the early morning hours.
As the fog lifts and the temperatures stabilize, residents can expect a return to more typical winter conditions, but authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to provide updates.