Heavy rain hits parts of the UAE, with more forecast this week

Abu Dhabi Police urge motorists to drive with caution

Rain falling in Ajman on Sunday. Downpours were reported in many parts of the country. @Storm_centre/ Twitter

Heavy rain hit areas of Dubai and other parts of the UAE on Sunday, with forecasts warning more could be expected throughout the week.

The National Centre of Meteorology reported downpours across the country starting just after midnight and urged people to stay away from areas prone to flooding.

The centre warned there was a chance of rain over some coastal, northern and eastern areas until at least 8.30pm.

It also said that winds could reach speeds of up to 40kph.

Abu Dhabi Police urged motorists to exercise caution due to the rainy weather and advised people to adhere to speed limits displayed on electronic information boards.

The centre also urged people to stay away from areas prone to flash flooding, use dipped-beam headlights during periods of low visibility and avoid driving during periods of heavy rain if possible.

It also called on the public to follow official sources for weather news and to avoid spreading rumours.

Footage of heavy rain across the UAE was also posted on Storm Centre, a social media account that tracks weather.

One clip showed motorists driving through heavy rain in Ajman, while another showed a torrential downpour in Umm Al Quwain. A third portrayed dark skies and showers in Khor Fakkan on the UAE's east coast, while several others showed water coursing through wadis in the Northern Emirates.

In Dubai, police seized 24 vehicles and motorcycles for dangerous driving. The force said the motorists were engaged in hazardous and reckless driving in adverse conditions in Al Rowaiyah area.

The weather centre said there was the possibility of more rain over some parts of the country on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

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