In photos: UAE residents woke up to heavy rains, thunder in Dubai, Sharjah

Residents in the UAE woke up to another cold and rainy day on Wednesday. Overcast skies are expected in many parts of the UAE, with a chance of light rainfall, according to the weather forecast for today, issued by the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).

Residents caught in the rain at Sheikh Zayed road in Dubai on Wednesday.

Residents were seen protecting themselves using umbrellas and coats as they went about their day on Wednesday

Showers along with lightning and thunder were also reported from Sharjah. A good idea when on the road when it's pouring is to slow down - it's easier for accidents to occur when patches of road are wet and slippery.

Rainbow seen over Dubai after heavy rain

Unstable weather with moderate to heavy rains in several parts of the UAE have prompted the authorities to issues traffic advisories, and schools to close early, even as some of them announced the suspension of physical classes over the next few days.

Rainbow over Dubai after heavy rains on Wednesday afternoon.

A pedestrian crosses a road in Sharjah with puddles of rain water.

A good idea when on the road when it's pouring is to slow down - it's easier for accidents to occur when patches of road are wet and slippery.

The light rain is characteristic for the season and is a welcome change in comparison to the warmer months of the year.

People in Sharjah during the unstable conditions with overcast sky.

Residents protect themselves against the showers with umbrellas. The lowest temperature recorded today was 3.3°C.

A resident walks in the rain in Dubai with her coat protecting her from the drizzle.

Residents protect themselves against the showers with umbrellas, and hoodies.

A beach in Sharjah. Windy weather conditions will cause the sea to be rough in the Arabian Gulf and Oman sea. It is advisable for residents to stay away from the sea.

Those who are getting around on foot have to watch out for some big puddles.

Rainbow seen over Dubai after heavy rain on Wednesday afternoon.