Dubai: Heavy rain and thunderstorms have been lashing the UAE since Tuesday morning. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) urges residents to prioritize their safety by staying home unless absolutely necessary. To ensure your safety and that of others around you, you can follow these basic safety guidelines from NCEMA when you do experience such weather conditions.
What should you avoid when there is lightning?
NCEMA explains that lightning is usually harmless because most of its charges do not reach the Earth. But here are a few basic guidelines you need to always keep in mind, according to NCEMA:
If you live in flood-prone areas, here’s what you should do when you are at home:
• Up-to-date weather reports - Stay informed with official forecasts.
• Emergency kit - Be prepared with essentials like a flashlight and first-aid supplies.
• Close all your windows - Ensure that all the windows, exterior doors and other inlets have been tightly closed.
• Do not leave the house - Do not leave the house unless necessary and do not allow children to play outside the house. Postpone any outdoor activities or work.
• Backup lighting - Power outages are possible. Have candles or a charged flashlight handy.
• Unplug electronics - Disconnect appliances to avoid damage from electrical surges.
• Don’t use your telephone - Use cordless or mobile phones during storms.
• Avoid taking a shower - Lightning can travel through plumbing.
• Minimise contact with metal - Avoid windows, doors, and metal objects.
Caught outside? Here's what to do
• Seek shelter immediately: Head for a sturdy building or enclosed vehicle.
• Drive with caution: Watch out for slippery roads and reduced visibility.
• Ditch the high ground: Avoid elevated areas or rooftops.
• Find a safe, low spot: Stay clear of tall trees, poles, and power lines.
• Move away from water: Avoid beaches, valleys, and dams. If you happen to be out at sea, head to the shore.
• Spread out: If you're in a group, maintain distance from each other.
• Stay away from metal: This includes fences, pipes, and railway tracks.
