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Fog, rain alert for UAE: NCM issues advisory for motorists

The NCM warned of low visibility for areas under a red alert warning

by Gulf Business

March 31, 2024

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The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a yellow and red alert for parts of the UAE.

Fog alert

The weather authority warned of fog, mist along with rainy conditions gripping most of UAE on Sunday, March 31.

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— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) March 31, 2024

The NCM warned of low visibility for areas under a red alert warning. Visibility was expected to drop to less than 1000 metres or 1 kilometre.

It consequently issued an advisory to motorists warning them of bad driving conditions in the early hours of Sunday, March 31.

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— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) March 31, 2024

Tips for driving safely in foggy conditions

Use low beam headlights: Contrary to popular belief, high beam lights can worsen visibility in fog. Keep your headlights on low beam to illuminate the road ahead without creating glare that reflects off the fog.
Maintain safe distance: Increase your following distance to allow for ample reaction time in case the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes. Avoid tailgating, even if other drivers are doing so. Drive at a reasonable pace, prioritising safety over speed.
Stay alert and sharp: Minimise distractions inside the vehicle by turning off music and staying focused on the road ahead. Be prepared to react quickly to changing conditions, such as intersections or sudden obstacles. Use your horn judiciously to alert other drivers without causing unnecessary noise pollution.
Use hazard lights wisely: Again, contrary to popular belief, hazard lights are not recommended during foggy conditions as they can obscure visibility. Switching on hazard lights on a foggy road negatively impacts the drivers behind as it prevents them for tracking lane change or judging the distance between vehicles. Avoid stopping on highways unless absolutely necessary, as hazards are most effective when indicating a stopped or slow-moving vehicle.
Defogging the windshield: Combat condensation buildup on windows by rolling them down slightly and activating your car heater directed at the windshield. While this may result in slightly cooler cabin temperatures, it’s essential for maintaining clear visibility, ensuring safer driving conditions for all passengers.