Thunderstorms and Rain Hit UAE Regions

Thunderstorms and Rain Expected in Some UAE Regions – What Does This Mean for the Coming Days?

The weather in the United Arab Emirates is once again at a turning point. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), thunderstorms and rain are expected over the next two days in some of the country's eastern, southern, and inland areas. The recent warnings indicate that these weather changes not only pose inconveniences for transportation and leisure activities but also underscore the importance of safety measures.

What is behind the expected weather?

According to the NCM, the primary cause of the weather instability is the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) from the south, along with the advancement of surface and upper low-pressure systems also from the south. These factors collectively induce the flow of moist air masses from the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, which provide favorable conditions for convective cloud formation – particularly over the country's eastern mountains.

These clouds are often associated with intense downpours, lightning, and thunder, which can have significant short-term environmental impacts in desert and semi-desert climates.

Where is the most rainfall expected?

According to the meteorological center, rainfall is mainly expected from Wednesday to Thursday in the eastern and southern areas, but the thunderstorm zone may also extend into some inland regions. Due to the topographical conditions in the Hajar Mountains region, there is a particularly high likelihood of thunder cells forming.

The amount of precipitation can vary in intensity, sometimes accompanied by gusty winds and dust storms that reduce visibility, especially in open, inland desert areas.

Changes in wind and visibility conditions

Air movement will also change significantly. The wind direction will change from southeast to northeast, generally moderate in strength, but may become strong or stormy around convective clouds. This can particularly cause dust and sandstorms in sandy and open areas, leading to sudden reductions in visibility.

These conditions require high caution in road transport, especially on highways. Due to low visibility, slippery roads, and possible water overflows, travelers are advised to always check local weather alerts and traffic reports before traveling.

The state of the sea

In the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the sea will be slightly or moderately wavy in the coming days. While no severe stormy conditions are expected, those going to sea – particularly small boats or yachts – are advised to consult the latest meteorological data before setting sail.

Increasing daytime temperature and humidity

Before the thunderstorms – and often immediately afterward – typically high daytime temperatures occur, associated with increased atmospheric humidity. This not only makes outdoor activities uncomfortable but also poses health risks, especially for the elderly, young children, or those with chronic illnesses. Due to the discomfort associated with heat and humidity, it is important that everyone drinks enough fluids and avoids prolonged direct sunlight exposures.

What should residents and visitors pay attention to?

The NCM advises all citizens and residents:

Avoid approaching waterways during stormy periods, as rapid floods can develop in these.

Do not park under trees or loose-structured roofs, billboards, which can be hazardous in windstorms.

Follow NCM and official announcements to be promptly informed about any warnings, alerts, or traffic changes.

What does this mean in the long term?

Such periodic instability in UAE weather is becoming increasingly common, especially at the end of summer and the beginning of the autumn season. These not only have a short-term impact on daily life but also pose environmental and infrastructural challenges, particularly in areas where precipitation is rare, and drainage systems may not be fully implemented.

These events also provide an opportunity to highlight the regional impacts of climate change and encourage society to adapt, whether in urban planning, transportation safety, or risk management.

Summary

In the coming two days, thunderstorm and rain-affected weather is expected in some regions of the UAE. The changes are driven by the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone and the effects of low-pressure systems. In the eastern and southern areas, as well as some inland regions, lightning, dust storms, and sudden reductions in visibility are also expected. The key message to residents and visitors is to stay informed, be cautious, and follow official weather alerts for their safety.

(Source: National Centre of Meteorology (NCM)