After four days of sandstorms, relief is in sight

Al Ain: For as far as the eye can't see, it's dust.

And the sandy, gusty conditions are likely to last until tomorrow when temperatures will begin to climb and winds decrease, weather forecasters said.

For the past four days, the UAE has been blanketed by the convergence of two weather systems which have kicked up desert sands. And the climatic convergence is being fed by dust bowl conditions in Iraq where land formerly farmed has turned to desert.

The first storm that hit the area four days ago brought in sand and dust from Iraq and Kuwait. The second storm causing low pressure moved eastwards over southeastern Iran and kicked up dust that yesterday engulfed the northern region of the UAE and parts of Oman.

The National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology said the strong north-westerly winds are a normal phenomenon.

Miserable living

The winds, however, have made life miserable for some. Staff at restaurants in the UAE are advising customers to sit inside as it's "unpleasant" outside.

A spokesperson for Pierchic at Al Qasr, Dubai said: "Tables are not set outside and we are now starting to remove them from the terrace areas. It's extremely windy, gusty and sandy. Our usual views have been spoiled."