Travelers across the UAE during the long weekend should brace for unpredictable weather, especially in Abu Dhabi, which is expected to experience unstable conditions.
The meteorological department anticipates rain and thunderstorms in the Capital, advising residents and drivers to be cautious of sudden weather changes.
On Wednesday evening, Margham in Dubai was hit by intense thunderstorms, lightning, and hail. This severe weather coincided with light showers in Al Ain, leading to dusty conditions and reduced visibility in many city areas. By Thursday, videos showed cloudy skies and heavy rain near Al Maktoum Airport, with vehicles navigating through rain on Emirates Road.
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The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued alerts about ongoing thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential flash floods, especially in the southwestern regions.
In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times on Thursday, NCM meteorologist Dr. Ahmed Habib discussed the evolving weather situation.
“This afternoon, convective clouds were noticed between Al Ain and Dubai, and by Friday, this activity could extend to Abu Dhabi and the Al Dhafra region, bringing rain and thunderstorms.”
He added that weather changes aren’t restricted to land. “This morning (Thursday), strong convective clouds were also observed over the sea between the UAE and Qatar, and around Abu Dhabi’s islands.”
Reasons behind the UAE’s sudden weather changes
Dr. Habib attributed the current conditions to a significant low-pressure system.
“We are experiencing low pressure at both surface and upper layers over the UAE’s western parts. This system draws water vapor from the Arabian Sea and the Oman Sea. When heated during the day, it creates strong upward motions (updrafts), forming convective clouds that bring rain to scattered regions.”
He clarified that while the Indian monsoon often affects UAE weather, this time a different factor is in play.
“Typically, the Indian monsoon is a surface-level thermal low (relatively shallow disturbances), but now we see a deep low-pressure system extending into the upper atmosphere. This upper-level low is causing regional instability.”
Autumn’s hallmark: Sudden weather changes
The UAE is nearing a seasonal shift from summer to autumn, known for its dramatic weather changes.
“Autumn officially begins on September 22. We’re at the end of summer, moving towards cooler conditions. This transition brings noticeable weather changes, shifting from stable to unstable. Both autumn and spring have this trait, but autumn marks a shift from hot to cold.”
Dr. Habib cautioned that such changes can occur within hours, surprising residents. “Stable weather today can quickly shift to unstable conditions the next day, resulting in sudden cloud cover and rain after a dry day.”
He noted that these transitional weeks often bring heavy rainfall, hail, and dust storms on the same day.
“During this period, convective cloud formation often results in heavy rain, sometimes hail. Weather can change dramatically in a day — starting foggy or hazy in the morning, leading to heavy rain, thunder, or dust storms by afternoon or night. This is typical when transitioning from summer to winter.”
Day-night temperature contrast driving instability
According to Dr. Habib, the daytime heat and cooler nighttime conditions further fuel instability.
“During the day, air masses heat up significantly, while at night, cooler sea air moves inland. This contrast between hot daytime and cooler nighttime conditions creates instability, explaining the rapid weather shifts.”
