United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Forecasters predict light to moderate rainfall early next week, with significantly weaker impact compared to recent storm
A new weather system is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall across the United Arab Emirates early next week, offering a calmer contrast to the intense storm that recently swept through the country.
According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the incoming system will affect parts of the country between March 31 and April 1, though its impact is expected to be far less severe.
NCM weather expert Dr Ahmad Habib emphasized that the system differs significantly in structure and strength from the previous storm, which brought widespread heavy rainfall and disruption.
“It will not be comparable to the recent system,” Habib stated, reassuring residents that the approaching weather pattern is considerably milder. Forecasters say the system will primarily consist of stratiform clouds — layered formations typically associated with steady but less intense rainfall.
As a result, most areas can expect light to moderate showers, with only isolated pockets experiencing heavier rainfall. “Most of the rainfall will be light to moderate,” Habib explained. “There could be some heavier rain, but only in very localised areas.”
The NCM indicated that southern inland regions of the UAE are likely to be the most affected by the approaching system. Areas around Al Ain, along with other internal parts of the country, may see higher rainfall activity compared to coastal regions.
In contrast, coastal cities, including major urban centers, are expected to experience relatively limited impact, with lighter showers and less cloud cover overall.
The announcement comes after a powerful storm system drenched large parts of the UAE earlier this week, causing temporary flooding, traffic disruptions, and public concern.
However, officials are keen to highlight the difference between the two systems to prevent unnecessary alarm.
Habib stressed that there is currently no need for heightened concern or extensive preparations, given the weaker dynamics of the incoming weather pattern. “This system has less moisture and weaker dynamics compared to the previous one,” he said.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, noting that weather forecasts may still evolve as new data becomes available. “All predictions are based on the latest available data, and conditions can change,” Habib added.
Meteorologists say the current weather activity is consistent with seasonal patterns typically observed during the spring transition period in the region. During this time of year, the interaction between warm and cold air masses often leads to unstable atmospheric conditions, resulting in periodic rainfall and cloud formation.
“This is a natural characteristic of this time of year,” Habib explained. “It’s a period where warm and cold air masses interact, creating unstable conditions.” Experts note that such transitional weather can bring rapid changes, though the intensity and duration of each system can vary significantly.
Residents are advised to stay updated through official weather channels and exercise normal caution during periods of rainfall, especially when traveling on roads that may become slippery.
While the upcoming system is not expected to cause major disruption, authorities recommend maintaining awareness of changing conditions, particularly in inland regions where rainfall could be more concentrated.
The NCM continues to issue regular updates and encourages the public to rely on official sources for accurate and timely information. As the UAE moves further into the spring season, similar weather patterns may occur intermittently, though not all systems will carry the same intensity as the recent storm.
For now, the outlook suggests a brief spell of mild rainfall — a reminder of the region’s shifting seasonal dynamics rather than a cause for concern.
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