UAE Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Until November 12
Meteorologists warn of thunderstorms, convective clouds, and dropping temperatures across the Emirates this week.
1Impending Unsettled Weather Conditions
The United Arab Emirates is preparing for a period of unstable weather starting this week. Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, combined with an approaching low-pressure system, will trigger thunderstorms and heavy rain. These conditions are expected to persist across the country, particularly affecting major cities and northern coastal regions until November 12.
2Meteorological Drivers of Change
Dr. Ahmed Habib from the National Centre of Meteorology explains that the system is driven by a surface low-pressure trough extending from the Red Sea. This is reinforced by an upper-air low-pressure system moving from the north-west. These combined forces are pulling significant moisture-rich cloud formations from Saudi Arabia toward the UAE.
3Geographic Impact and Rainfall Intensity
Rainfall will begin in western regions, islands, and coastal areas before intensifying on Wednesday afternoon. While mountainous areas and Ras Al Khaimah are expected to receive the heaviest showers, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will also experience light to moderate rain. Thunderstorms may specifically develop in the corridor between Dubai and Al Ain.
4Wind Speeds and Maritime Risks
Alongside the precipitation, residents should anticipate stronger north-westerly winds reaching speeds of up to 45 kmph. These winds will likely cause blowing dust and sand, reducing visibility on roads. Furthermore, maritime conditions are expected to become rough to very rough, posing potential hazards for those operating vessels in the coastal waters.
5Temperature Shifts and Cooling Trends
The country will experience a gradual cooling effect as cloud cover increases and the weather system progresses. Temperatures are forecast to drop by approximately 4°C to 6°C over the next three days. This cooling will occur in stages, with a notable decrease on Tuesday followed by a further decline by Friday afternoon.
6Seasonal Context of Weather Systems
Meteorologists emphasize that this type of unsettled weather is typical for the UAE during the autumn season. While the main spell of rain is expected to ease by the afternoon of November 12, some residual cloud activity may linger over the northern and eastern parts of the country through the following Friday.
7Public Safety and Preparedness
Authorities and meteorologists are monitoring the deepening low-pressure system closely as it moves across the region. Residents are advised to stay updated with official news channels regarding potential hazards. The combination of convective clouds and heavy showers necessitates caution, especially for those traveling through mountainous areas or near coastal roads.
8Summary of Expected Impacts
The UAE faces a brief but intense period of atmospheric instability characterized by convective cloud development and varying rainfall intensity. By mid-week, the focus shifts from western regions to the northern emirates and main cities. The event highlights the influence of regional pressure systems on the local climate during the transition into winter.
Original article: Khaleej Times — UAE Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Until November 12