Al Ain: Rain and thunderstorm hit different parts of the UAE late on Tuesday and Wednesday morning, as forecasters expect more rain in the country.
Rain is continuing in Dubai, Sharjah and many other parts of the UAE. While the rain became a blessing for many, it turned out to be a misery for motorists. Heavy traffic jams were reported in many parts of the country, including Al Ittihad Road, Shaikh Zayed Road and Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Road in Dubai and roads leading to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
The current unsettled weather is getting stronger, increasing the chances of moderate to heavy rain in some areas. Thunder or hailstorm is also expected, said the forecasters.
Intermittent light to moderate rain hit Al Ain and its surrounding areas all night that brought the dried mountain streams to life in the Jebel Hafeet area. Overnight thunderstorm has also been reported in Jebel Ali, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Ruwais, Al Mirfa and Liwa.
Rain caused traffic delays across Dubai and Sharjah on Wednesday. Picture: Arshad Ali
Residents of Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman also enjoyed light to moderate rain. “It was light rain but continued until morning with intervals,” said Najam Ali, a resident of Sharjah. Ali and his family enjoyed the cool and wet weather. “We hope it would continue during the daytime,” he said.
J.P. Fernandez, a resident of Abu Dhabi, said thunderstorm hit the capital giving moderate to heavy rain all through the night.
Rain slowed Shaikh Zayed Road in Dubai to a standstill on Wednesday morning. Picture: Jamie Goodwin
According to the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS), unstable weather will continue on Wednesday across the country with cloudy and dusty conditions. Cloud cover will increase over some areas, causing thunder and hailstorm at times. Wind speed could increase, becoming stronger at times, kicking up dust and sand in the open areas.
The NCMS said sea will also be rough to very rough at time. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution. Fishermen and seafarers have been urged to stay away from the sea.