Convective cloud formations, blowing dust, and strong downdraft winds expected as surface low-pressure system extends across the country.
ABU DHABI, August 5, 2026:The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather alert warning residents of potential convective rain clouds, lightning, and strong winds affecting parts of the eastern and western regions of the United Arab Emirates.
The meteorological authority reported that the unstable weather pattern is driven by an extension of a surface low-pressure system from the east, combined with an upper-air low-pressure system. This atmospheric setup is encouraging local cloud formation over inland, mountain, and desert areas, bringing localized afternoon rain showers and lightning strikes.
Surface winds are expected to remain light to moderate overall, ranging between 10 km/h and 25 km/h. Stronger downdraft winds reaching up to 45 km/h are likely under rain-bearing convective clouds, creating blowing dust and sand that could temporarily reduce horizontal visibility on highways.
Despite localized showers, high daytime temperatures will persist across inland locations, pushing summer maximums toward 50°C in select interior areas. Coastal areas and islands face high humidity levels of up to 85 percent, keeping general conditions hot and muggy. Sea conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea are forecast to remain generally slight.
The NCM advised motorists to exercise caution on open roads due to blowing dust and sudden rain showers. Drivers were urged to avoid low-lying regions prone to water collection and valleys subject to sudden runoff. Authorities also advised residents to remain indoors during lightning activity and monitor official channels for real-time updates rather than relying on unverified social media reports.
