The UAE is set for a day of dusty skies, sweltering heat, and reduced visibility on Friday, August 15, as the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued multiple alerts urging residents to remain cautious.
In its morning advisory, the NCM warned of dusty conditions prevailing across the country between 8am and 5pm, with horizontal visibility expected to drop below 2,000 metres in several regions.
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport was among the areas most affected, with the yellow weather alert being upgraded to orange in certain parts due to intensified dust activity.
The warning came alongside a forecast of light to moderate winds, occasionally freshening, which could cause blowing dust and sand — particularly in the eastern and northern parts of the UAE.
“We urge residents to take precautions, especially while driving in low-visibility conditions,” the NCM stated. By the afternoon, the NCM issued an updated dust alert covering various emirates until 5pm.
The agency also noted the possibility of convective cloud formation towards the east later in the day, with cloudy conditions expected by night over eastern and southern areas, potentially accompanied by a slight temperature rise.
Extreme heat remains a dominant feature of the country’s weather, with the mercury soaring to 48°C in internal areas. Dubai is expected to see temperatures between 34°C and 44°C, while Abu Dhabi will range from 33°C to 47°C.
Sharjah’s forecast predicts a high of 45°C and a low of 33°C. On Thursday, Al Jazeera B.G in the Al Dhafra Region recorded the highest nationwide temperature of 48.5°C at 3:30pm.
Adding to the day’s weather challenges, the NCM also cautioned residents about foggy conditions during the early hours of Friday morning, which could further impact road safety. Motorists were advised to drive with headlights on and maintain safe distances.
Maritime conditions are expected to remain moderate in the Arabian Gulf, although waters could turn rough at times offshore, while the Oman Sea is forecast to stay slight to moderate.
With dusty skies, high temperatures, and fluctuating visibility levels, the NCM’s latest advisory serves as a timely reminder for UAE residents to limit outdoor exposure, stay hydrated, and monitor official updates throughout the day.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members