Convective cloud formations driven by low-pressure systems threaten localized downpours, reduced visibility, and morning fog as inland temperatures touch 42°C.
DUBAI — Scattered rain, blowing dust, and wind gusts reaching 50 km/h are set to affect parts of the United Arab Emirates through Sunday as an unsettled weather pattern takes hold, national forecasters said Wednesday.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued a multi-day advisory warning that convective cloud formations will trigger afternoon showers, primarily across eastern and southern regions. The conditions stem from an extension of a surface low-pressure system coupled with a weak upper-air trough.
Motorists face sharp drops in horizontal visibility across inland and mountain corridors. Southeasterly to northwesterly winds ranging between 10 and 25 km/h will frequently freshen to 50 km/h during cloud activity, whipping up sand and loose dust. Coastal areas will see wind gusts up to 40 km/h.
Despite the precipitation threat, daytime heat remains intense. Inland regions will record highs between 39°C and 42°C, while coastal areas and islands hover between 35°C and 39°C. Mountainous terrain offers cooler conditions, with peaks ranging from 28°C to 36°C.
Relative humidity will climb sharply overnight and into Thursday morning, creating conditions favorable for thick mist and patchy fog along the coast and interior roadways. Marine conditions remain benign, with slight sea states reported in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.
The NCM’s extended outlook indicates convective clouds will spread eastward on Thursday before pushing into inland and western areas by late afternoon. Wind gusts of up to 50 km/h will recur around storm cells.
Rain chances will persist on Friday and Saturday, dominated by localized afternoon convection over eastern belts. Wind speeds should taper slightly from Friday onward, capping at 40 km/h through Sunday. Northern and eastern districts will remain the focal point for lingering weekend showers, accompanied by routine overnight fog cycles.
