Rain brings solace after sweltering summer

Dubai: Heavy rain and lightning in the city on Wednesday caused traffic jams and water-logging in many areas, but also brought joy to residents who said that they welcomed the change in the weather.

Despite flooding of the streets residents were happy and many were seen walking in the ankle-deep water in some places.

Light rain was also observed in parts of Sharjah and Ajman.

"It was nice to experience the rain after months of dry weather. Usually it doesn't rain much in this part of the region," said Susha A., an Indian.

"As I was leaving the office, I had to wait for 20 minutes for the downpour to ease. Then I walked through water-logged streets to get to my car.

"A proper drainage system is important to avoid water logging. I remember all the trouble residents went through when it rained at the beginning of this year," he said.

Salman Shafi, a Canadian, said: "Rain is always appreciated as it is essential for the growth of agricultural crops, among other things. Nevertheless, I believe people should avoid sitting in open areas where they could be struck by lightning."

The Met office said that the unstable weather in Dubai is due to moist air coming in from the sea and mixing with the unstable atmosphere.

"Rain at this time of the year is not uncommon and could continue over the weekend. However, sunny skies are expected on Sunday," said Met forecaster Chris Worger.

According to Worger, isolated showers and thunderstorms could hit the coast and interior areas of Dubai and the northern emirates today.

"Along the coast and inland, there is a risk of showers and thunderstorms. However, more thunderstorms are expected offshore to the north and north east today," he said.

Light to moderate winds are expected over the weekend with partly cloudy skies.