UAE Braces for Another Bout of Unpredictable Weather: Expert Insights and Preparations

In the wake of the UAE’s recent encounter with unprecedented rainfall on April 16, residents and authorities are gearing up for another bout of challenging weather conditions set to commence on May 2. 

Dr. Ahmed Habib, a weather specialist at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), has provided crucial insights into the impending scenario, highlighting both the expected challenges and preparations underway.

While comparisons may arise with the rainfall experienced in April, Dr. Habib emphasizes that this event will be different, with May 2-3 marked as the ‘peak’ of the situation.

“We will see cloud formation in the south of Abu Dhabi in the Al Dhafra area that’ll gradually move towards the internal parts like the Al Ain area. But May 3 will be the ‘peak’ of the situation,” stated Dr. Habib.

The Met Department forecasts indicate that the inclement weather will commence from the west by Wednesday night, extending over most areas of the country on Thursday and focusing on western, coastal, and some eastern regions. Significant decreases in temperatures are also expected.

Dr. Habib sheds light on the factors contributing to the upcoming weather event, citing the influence of low pressure originating from the East, which will increase humidity in eastern areas and lead to rising surface temperatures. 

Additionally, he notes the impact of surface low pressure from the Red Sea, accompanied by humid southeasterly winds, and a similar extension of low pressure in the upper atmosphere from the north.

“The influence will also stretch eastward from Abu Dhabi due to local factors,” Dr. Habib remarked. Concerns about the influence of climate change on extreme weather events like the record-breaking rainfall on April 16 are raised. 

Dr. Habib acknowledges ongoing investigations into whether global warming played a role in the intensity of the rainfall, emphasizing the need for comprehensive examination and research.

In less than 24 hours, from April 15 to 16, the UAE witnessed its most substantial rainfall since records began 75 years ago, with over 6.04 billion cubic meters recorded in that duration. 

This surpasses the country’s average annual rainfall of approximately 6.7 billion cubic meters. The aftermath of the April rainfall saw widespread disruptions, with highways, residences, and vital infrastructure affected by flooding. 

Some areas recorded over 200mm of rain in a single day, highlighting the severity of the event. “We are examining 30-35 years’ worth of data to gain insights into the underlying reasons and the phenomenon of global warming contributing to such intense rainfall events,” Dr. Habib explained.

As the UAE braces for another round of unpredictable weather, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Preparedness measures are being put in place to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

With uncertainties surrounding the extent of the upcoming weather event, continuous monitoring and updates from meteorological authorities will be crucial in guiding responses and minimizing impacts. 

As the country navigates through these challenging weather conditions, resilience and adaptation remain paramount in addressing the evolving challenges posed by climate change.

This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members