[Editor’s Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog for the latest updates as the UAE deals with heavy rains and unstable weather conditions.]
The UAE experienced one of its heaviest rainfall events of the season on Wednesday as storms transformed the usually sunny skies into massive clouds and downpours, flooding streets and slowing traffic across multiple emirates.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) shared with Khaleej Times the top five recorded rainfall amounts up to the end of Wednesday, March 25.
Al Tawiyen received 47.9mm, Al Marjan 39.7mm, Khor Fakkan 33.3mm, Khatam Al Shaklah 31.6mm, and Khor Fakkan Port received 28.3mm of rainfall.
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Abu Dhabi’s Das Island also recorded 47.9mm of rain since Tuesday, highlighting the intensity of the showers.
Authorities have responded swiftly, deploying monitoring teams to ensure smoother traffic and launching large-scale disinfection drives in Sharjah to treat stagnant rainwater.
Public parking in Sharjah remained free except in smart parking areas, while Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Abu Dhabi Police advised motorists to exercise caution due to low visibility.
Record rainfall floods streets, disrupts traffic
The storms caused damage in some areas, with trees uprooted and falling onto cars, particularly in Ajman. Residents came together to clear streets and maintain safety amid the sudden deluge. Emirates Airlines advised passengers to arrive at least two hours early as adverse weather continues in Dubai through March 26 and 27.
Strong winds accompanied the heavy rains, reaching speeds of up to 74kmph in Al Ghuwaifat, around 71kmph in Mussafah, and up to 65kmph in offshore areas, particularly affecting Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.
Authorities have issued safety warnings, urging residents to avoid valleys (wadis) during rainfall, refrain from driving in low visibility, and stay away from water pools or flooded areas.
A look at the weekend
Looking ahead, the weekend is expected to bring clearer skies, though strong north-westerly winds may persist. Temperatures are forecast to reach a high of 20°C, with partly cloudy to clear skies. Sea conditions will remain rough, making swimming and other marine activities risky, while winds may reduce visibility in exposed areas.
As the UAE enters spring, these storms serve as a reminder of the country’s increasingly unpredictable weather, prompting both authorities and residents to stay vigilant while navigating sudden heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Source: Khaleej Times