Some locations in the UAE saw very high levels of rainfall on Friday, the last day of a week of unstable weather.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has released data revealing the five areas across the country that recorded the highest rainfall. All five areas recorded more than 226mm of rain, with the top spot exceeding 244mm.
For context, the average rainfall received by the UAE in a year is 100mm.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
This week saw the country receive several hours of continuous rainfall, sometimes up to nine hours straight, causing flooding and waterlogging in some parts of the emirates.
Despite the high amount of rainfall, UAE officials have said that the storm was not comparable to the historic 2024 floods because of the intensity of the rain being distributed over several days and locations.
Here is a breakdown of each location:
Jebel Yanas, 244 mm
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Topping the list with 244mm of rain is Jebel Yanas, the popular scenic mountain and camping spot in Ras Al Khaimah.
Unlike its better-known neighbour Jebel Jais, which boasts a smooth asphalt road, the route to Yanas is unpaved and requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
The mountain is located approximately 20 kilometres from Ras Al Khaimah City and forms part of the Hajar mountain range.
During winter months, temperatures in the area can drop significantly, with the mountainous region occasionally experiencing frost.
Manama, 234.7 mm
Location: Ajman
Recording 234.7mm of rainfall, Manama is one of two exclaves belonging to the emirate of Ajman. Located at an elevation of approximately 233 metres, this township is primarily known for its agricultural land.
Farmers in Manama have long grown papaya, lemon trees, and various fruits and vegetables, taking advantage of the area’s fertile soil and water sources. Manama is also known for producing two fine varieties of wild honey from sidr and simr trees.
Al Hayer, 234.1
Location: Al Ain
A desert area located between Dubai and Al Ain, Al Hayer experienced heavy rain and stormy conditions, including thunder and lightning this week. The area came in third, receiving 234.1 mm of rain.
Jebel Mebreh, 229.7mm
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Recording 229.7mm of rainfall, Jebel Mebreh, or Jebel Yibir, as it is commonly referred to, stands 1,527 metres above sea level and is considered one of the tallest prominent summits in the UAE.
The area has become a destination for hikers seeking cooler temperatures.
Khatam Al Shaklah, 226.6mm
Location: Al Ain
Rounding out the list with 226.6mm of rainfall is Khatam Al Shaklah, located in Al Ain.
It is a border crossing point between the UAE and Oman and gained prominence for recording the highest rainfall in the UAE during the historic April 2024 floods – a whopping 254.8 mm in less than 24 hours.
The rainfall data from NCM covers the period of unstable weather that began on March 24, when a powerful low-pressure system brought repeated waves of torrential rain and gale-force winds across the country.
On Saturday, authorities announced the end of the unstable weather. The country is expected to receive a bout of scattered rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday due to a new weather system.
Source: Khaleej Times