Abu Dhabi closes parks and beaches amid heavy rain

Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi has closed all public parks, recreational facilities and municipal beaches until further notice as heavy rain and lightning lashed parts of the Capital for the first time this summer.

Abu Dhabi City Municipality announced the precautionary measure on Friday through its Instagram account, saying all events at the affected facilities had also been suspended.

The closures came as thunderstorms and rainfall swept across parts of the emirate, marking the first rain reported in Abu Dhabi this summer and bringing a significant change in conditions after weeks of intense heat.

The municipality said the measure was introduced as a precaution to protect the public during the unstable weather.

Rain was also reported elsewhere in the UAE on Friday, including in Al Ain, while Fujairah experienced cloudy conditions and periods of light drizzle earlier in the day.

The unsettled pattern is expected to persist over the coming days. Convective clouds could again form over eastern and southern areas on Saturday afternoon, with a chance of rainfall, while temperatures are expected to rise gradually.

Further cloud development is forecast over eastern areas on Sunday, with the possibility of afternoon convection returning on Monday.

Fog or mist could form over some coastal areas early on Tuesday, while eastern areas could see another chance of convective clouds and rainfall later in the day.

The municipality did not say when the parks, beaches and recreational facilities would reopen, saying the closures would remain in place until further notice.

Motorists urged to exercise caution

Abu Dhabi Police also urged motorists to exercise caution during the unstable weather, calling on drivers to follow safe-driving measures and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.

Drivers were advised to obey temporary speed limits when the variable speed-limit system is activated, leave a safe distance between vehicles and avoid sudden braking or sharp manoeuvres that could cause a vehicle to skid.

Police also warned motorists to stay away from valleys and areas where water has accumulated, as rain continued to affect parts of the emirate.