JESSI AMASON (ABU DHABI)
The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued one “Take Action” (red) weather warning on Tuesday for the majority of the country as heavy rains and strong winds affected the majority of the country. The alert is effective until Wednesday at 6:00pm. According to the NCM, the “Take Action” warning requires the public to be extremely vigilant, as hazardous weather events of exceptional severity are in the forecast.
From Tuesday evening to early Wednesday morning, the UAE expects another wave of the rainy weather currently affecting the region to sweep through the country from the West.
Wednesday morning, increasing convective cloud formations are expected to spread across scattered areas of the country, likely producing rainfall of varying intensities, in addition to lightning, thunder, and possibly hail in some areas.
Transitioning into the afternoon on Wednesday, convective clouds are expected to form over coastal areas, carrying a possibility of rainfall. These cloud formations are then forecast to concentrate over eastern and northern regions of the country, with clouds gradually decreasing.
By Thursday, the NCM predicts the weather to be fair with partly cloudy skies, especially in the north, accompanied by a rise in temperatures.
The NCM urged residents to take all the precautions and follow the safety measures during rainfall and to stay away from areas of flooding and water accumulation.
Following a UAE Cabinet decision, the UAE Government Media Office announced that remote work will be extended to Wednesday, April 17, for all federal government employees, with the exception of roles that require physical presence at the workplace.
The Dubai Government also announced the extension of the remote work period and remote learning for all private schools in the emirate through Wednesday, April 17. The government urged private sector institutions to implement the remote work system on Wednesday and to ensure the safety of all.
The Abu Dhabi Police on Tuesday announced speed reductions on a number of roads in the emirate and urged drivers to exercise extreme caution during the inclement weather.
Earlier in the week, the Abu Dhabi Police informed the public that emergency situations, including fallen trees, falling or sloping streetlights, and pooling water can be reported on the police hotline at 933, or via Whatsapp at 026788888.
The Urgent Notifications feature on the Abu Dhabi Police’s smart app can be used to stay informed of adverse weather safety measures, traffic jams, and accidents.
Meanwhile, authorities across the emirates extended remote working mechanism and distance learning in light of the inclement weather conditions.