Heavy rain and strong winds are forecast for Dubai on Friday, where showers have already begun, ahead of a weekend of unstable conditions for the UAE.
The National Centre of Meteorology is warning rainfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning could bring flash flooding.
The centre has issued a red warning – its highest level alert – for nearly all of the country, and is advising people to be extremely vigilant due to hazardous conditions.
Strong winds, which could hit 45kph could blow dust and sand. At sea, stronger winds of around 70kph could lead to rough seas with waves nine feet high.
There is a high chance of heavy rain in Dubai throughout Friday and into Saturday morning.
The forecast for Abu Dhabi promises a similar day of rainfall and strong winds.
The thundery showers which began on Thursday night are expected to carry on as an “unstable system” sweeps across the country.
National Centre of Meteorology forecaster Amna Al Zaabi on Thursday said the stormy weather was expected to stay until Monday.
“The weather instability is expected to intensify and will gradually extend over most areas of the country on Friday and Saturday," she said.
She urged drivers to “be cautious and follow the traffic rules”.
