Weather update: Heavy fog blankets UAE; red alert issued

Dubai: Authorities urged drivers across UAE to be cautious while driving this morning as dense fog covers parts of the country. The UAE’s National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued red and yellow alerts for fog of varying intensities that will affect many parts of the country until 10:30 am on Thursday, November 20.

In affected areas, visibility has dropped drastically, with forecasts indicating it can be as low as 300 meters (0.3 km) in the densest patches this morning.  Abu Dhabi Police has implement reduced speed limits (80 km/hr) on major roads in these areas.

Due to the sharp drop in visibility this morning, Dubai Police have also issued a major fog alert, warning motorists to exercise extreme caution on all city roads.

NCM on its social media channels, explained that there is a blanket of fog over Al Qarayen, in Sharjah; Abu Dhabi’s Zayed international Airport; Dubai’s Al Lisaili and Al Qudra; and Abu Dhabi’s Seih Shuaib and Al Ajban.

Other areas where visibility is  affected includes Al Maktoum International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, Al Aweer in Dubai, and Al Ain’s Sweihan.

Calling for a measured approach while on the roads, NCM urged drivers to:

• Keep a safe distance between vehicles

• Keep to the speed limits

• Keep to your lane

• Do not turn on your hazard light.

It also called for people to check official websites to ensure the dissemination of truth and not fall for fake news or reports concerning the weather.

Temperatures are also expected to drop this morning owing to the fog.

NCM also warned of rough seas, asking people not to go swimming or conduct maritime activities at the moment.