Second wave of thunderstorms hit UAE: Dubai sees heavy rainfall

Image credit: Gulf Business

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast a second wave of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall on Tuesday afternoon for most of the UAE.

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— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 16, 2024

The NCM said storms will start from the west and move eastward, affecting much of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Adverse weather conditions may persist into Wednesday morning with convective clouds over coastal areas.

#تنبيه #المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد
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— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) April 16, 2024

The NCM in its weather advisory stated that a “second wave will begin from Western areas and spread across scattered areas of the country, where the amounts of convective clouds will increase, associated with rainfall of different intensities, lightning, thunder, and a probability of hail in some areas.”

The Centre added that, from Wednesday morning to afternoon, some convective clouds will form over coastal areas associated with rainfall and then will concentrate over Eastern and Northern regions, with the clouds gradually decreasing by Wednesday noon, as per state news agency WAM.

Heavy rainfall across the UAE

The fresh weather advisory follows the torrential rain and thunderstorms which affected parts of the UAE on Tuesday morning.

Heavy downpours were recorded in Abu Dhabi and Dubai overnight, leading to flooded roads and flight delays at Dubai International Airport.

The storm, has reportedly brought 31mm of rain in the last six hours and 158mm in 24 hours, according to the Apple weather app.

Road closures and traffic advisories

Several roads have been closed due to flooding.

Drivers have been urged to avoid specific routes in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain. Traffic flow on Al Asayel Street and First Al Khail Street, coming from Business Bay towards Jebel Ali is restricted.

Portions of Sheikh Zayed Road are flooded, affecting inter-emirate travel.

Public transportation disruptions

Dubai’s public bus services faced delays and cancellations.

Disruptions on the Dubai Metro Red Line at Onpassive station, with alternative bus services provided.

Stay-at-Home advisory

Authorities advised residents to stay at home due to dangerous weather conditions.

The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) urged adherence to safety instructions and obtaining information from official sources.

Read: Emirates, flyDubai issue alert as unstable weather delays flights at Dubai Airport