Residents across the UAE woke up on Saturday to dense fog covering vast areas, significantly reducing visibility on roads and prompting authorities to issue safety advisories.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warned motorists to drive cautiously as foggy conditions posed potential risks, particularly in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
The weather authority shared a map highlighting the areas most affected by the heavy fog, which included Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road towards Sharjah and Wathba in Abu Dhabi.
Due to the reduced visibility, Abu Dhabi Police took to X (formerly Twitter) to urge motorists to adhere to traffic regulations and follow the changing speed limits displayed on electronic information boards.
Authorities Issue Fog Advisory
The NCM reported that foggy conditions would persist through the morning hours, with a likelihood of mist formation later at night.
Residents can expect humid conditions on Saturday night and into Sunday morning, particularly in coastal and western internal areas. The fluctuating weather conditions mean that temperatures may increase later in the day despite the morning chill.
Abu Dhabi Police reiterated the importance of exercising caution, reducing speed, and maintaining a safe distance between vehicles.
The authority also reminded drivers of the dangers of using hazard lights while driving in foggy conditions, as they should only be used when the vehicle is stationary to prevent confusion on the roads.
Weather Conditions and Forecast
According to the NCM, light to moderate northwesterly to northeasterly winds will prevail, occasionally freshening and causing blowing dust. Wind speeds are expected to range between 10kmph and 25kmph, with gusts reaching up to 40kmph in certain areas.
The Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea will experience slight sea conditions, ensuring safe maritime operations. However, authorities advised seafarers and fishermen to stay updated on weather alerts.
Temperature Outlook
Saturday’s weather will bring relatively mild temperatures during the day with cooler conditions at night. The forecast predicts:
- Abu Dhabi: High of 30°C, low of 19°C
- Dubai: High of 30°C, low of 18°C
- Sharjah: High of 30°C, low of 18°C
While current temperatures remain moderate, slight increases are anticipated later in the week. The combination of cooler nighttime conditions and rising daytime temperatures underscores the importance of staying prepared for fluctuating weather.
Motorists Advised to Stay Vigilant
With foggy conditions a common occurrence in the UAE, especially during seasonal transitions, authorities continue to emphasize road safety. The NCM has urged motorists to check weather updates before heading out and remain vigilant while driving in fog-prone areas.
As visibility improves throughout the day, residents are advised to plan their travel accordingly, ensuring safe and cautious driving practices to avoid accidents and traffic disruptions.
For continuous updates on weather conditions, residents can follow official sources such as the NCM and local traffic authorities on social media platforms.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members