The UAE witnessed severe weather on Wednesday, with multiple storm systems impacting several regions, bringing heavy rain, hail, and dust storms.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed sightings of tornado-like formations, known as dust devils, across parts of the country.
The storms affected cities including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, as videos shared by NCM showed towering dust columns and lightning strikes.
In Kalba and Ras Al Khaimah, dramatic footage captured by NCM showcased large dust formations swirling through the area, resembling tornadoes, as rain lashed the region.
Lightning was also seen striking the ground, while motorists cautiously stopped their vehicles to avoid potential hazards posed by the turbulent conditions.
Authorities in Abu Dhabi issued safety advisories on social media, cautioning residents to stay alert and adhere to safety measures while driving.
The government warned of moderate to heavy rains in the Al Ain region, with authorities providing tips for motorists to ensure safe driving amid the stormy conditions.
The turbulent weather came after the UAE’s meteorological department forecasted a significant shift in weather patterns for Thursday and Friday.
The forecast indicated that a moist air mass would move in from the Arabian Sea, coinciding with an extension of a weak low-pressure system in the upper air.
This system is expected to bring relatively cooler air, leading to the development of convective clouds over the region.
Residents in affected areas reported intense rainfall, which was accompanied by hail in some places. Dust storms significantly reduced visibility in various parts of the country, causing disruption on the roads.
In addition to the dust devils, strong winds created hazardous conditions, prompting authorities to urge the public to stay indoors where possible and avoid unnecessary travel.
Local authorities also advised motorists to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, reduce speed during the rain, and ensure that car headlights were turned on for better visibility.
Flash flooding is a concern, especially in low-lying areas, and authorities are monitoring the situation to respond to any emergencies.
As videos of the dust devils and lightning strikes circulated on social media, the NCM continued to issue updates on weather conditions and urged people to take all necessary precautions.
The sight of towering columns of dust, which some likened to tornadoes, captivated onlookers, though officials clarified that these formations were dust devils rather than actual tornadoes.
The stormy weather marks a significant departure from typical UAE conditions, which are often dry with clear skies.
However, the UAE’s Met Department has previously noted that the country can experience convective clouds and associated severe weather during the cooler months, particularly when weather systems from the Arabian Sea move inland.
The unsettled conditions are expected to persist over the coming days, with the NCM forecasting further chances of rain and possibly more dust storms as the weather pattern continues to evolve.
Authorities are urging residents to stay updated on weather alerts and follow safety advice to navigate the challenging conditions safely.