Sandstorm reduces visibility as strong winds buffet UAE

Dubai: Temperatures across the UAE continue to soar and conditions will remain unseasonably hot over the coming days.

A strong southeasterly wind with gusts of up to 30 knots created a sandstorm across much of the country on Saturday, with visibility reduced to 1,000 metres in Dubai and just 400 metres in Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi.

The maximum temperature in Dubai on Saturday was 36 degrees, only one degree off equalling the highest temperature ever recorded in the UAE during February.

Dr S.K. Gupta, Duty Forecaster at Dubai Meteorological Office, said: "It was very windy and dusty across much of the UAE yesterday and we expect more of the same today before conditions settle down tomorrow and on Monday when Shamal winds will move in.

"Several warnings have been issued as visibility on many roads is extremely poor especially on the major highways crossing the country. All motorists should take precautionary measures and drive carefully as the high winds will make vehicle control more difficult."

Temperatures will reach a maximum of 36 degrees again on Sunday and Monday but the Shamal winds will lead to a drop of 10-14 degrees on Tuesday when a more moderate 23 degrees is expected.