Rain, Fog and Dusty Winds Forecast: Abu Dhabi Police Urge Drivers to Slow Down
The National Centre of Meteorology has forecast a spell of unsettled weather across the UAE from Saturday through Tuesday, with rain, fog and dusty winds expected to affect visibility and road conditions. In response, Abu Dhabi Police have called on motorists to drive with extra caution, warning of slippery roads and reduced visibility during the period.
Weather outlook for the coming days
According to the NCM’s four-day outlook, Saturday will be fair to partly cloudy, with a chance of convective cloud formation over eastern areas in the afternoon that could bring rainfall. Humidity is set to increase overnight and into Sunday morning across some coastal and inland areas, raising the possibility of fog or mist. Southeasterly winds will shift to northwesterly, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h and occasionally stirring up dust.
On Sunday, rain-bearing clouds may develop over northern and eastern regions during the afternoon. Fog or mist could form in some coastal and inland areas overnight and into Monday morning, while winds may again touch 40 km/h.
Monday will bring further chances of afternoon rain in eastern and southern areas, with fog or mist possible overnight and into Tuesday morning, particularly in western parts of the country.
Similar conditions are expected on Tuesday, with a chance of rainfall over eastern and southern areas during the afternoon. Winds could strengthen to 50 km/h at times, potentially causing blowing dust and reduced visibility.
Sea conditions are forecast to remain slight in the Arabian Gulf throughout the four days. The Oman Sea will generally be slight, becoming slight to moderate on Monday.
Police safety advice for drivers
Abu Dhabi Police urged drivers to check weather conditions before setting off, reduce their speed and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to minimise the risk of accidents. Motorists were also warned against approaching valleys where water may be flowing or areas where rainwater has accumulated, and were told to follow instructions issued by the relevant authorities.
Police stressed the importance of avoiding distractions, particularly using mobile phones to take photographs or videos while driving, and complying with speed limits displayed on electronic road signs, which may be adjusted according to weather and road conditions.
The Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate highlighted the risks posed by poor visibility and vehicles skidding on wet roads, urging drivers to remain alert and take preventive measures to protect themselves and other road users.
Authorities have urged road users to remain vigilant, follow official weather updates and adjust their driving to prevailing road conditions.
