UAE weather alert: Dust storm and strong winds reduce visibility, NCM issues yellow and orange alerts

The NCM issues yellow alert for rough seas, warns of high waves

Last updated: April 15, 2025 | 19:20

Surabhi Vasundharadevi, Social Media Reporter

3 MIN READ

NCM issues advisory on dust storm to persist until 9pm

Afra Mubarak Al Nofeli/Gulf News Archives

Dubai: UAE residents, especially those with dust allergies, should stay indoors this evening due to a dust storm affecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a dust alert, stating that strong northwesterly winds are reducing visibility to below 3000 meters in some areas. These conditions are expected to last until 9 PM tonight.

Also Read: UAE weather alert: Orange dust alert issued in these regions of the country

Earlier, the weather bureau issued an alert as very dusty conditions and strong winds affected the country on Tuesday morning.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued warnings in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and parts of Dubai because of strong winds blowing dust into the air.

Also Read: UAE weather: Change in temperatures across these regions of the country

Also Read: UAE: 10 traffic fines to remember during bad weather conditions, up to Dh2,000 fine, two-month car impoundment

Abu Dhabi Police have advised drivers to exercise caution on the roads, as the dusty conditions hinder visibility. In a social media post, they urged residents to refrain from using their phones and taking videos of the weather while driving.

Visibility has been reduced to 2,000 meters in some areas, with some locations experiencing visibility as low as 100 meters, according to an official from the NCM. Strong winds are expected to persist, blowing at speeds of 15 to 25 km/h and reaching up to 40 km/h at times.

According to the NCM, dusty and hazy skies are anticipated, but a gradual decrease in dust levels is expected. These conditions are likely to last until 6pm this evening.

Most coastal areas of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah experienced warm temperatures ranging from 30 to 38°C.

The highest temperature recorded over the country today is 45.4°C in Sweihan (Al Ain) at 12:30pm.

The maximum humidity is expected to reach 90 per cent, leading to high humidity levels at night, particularly in some coastal and internal areas, with a chance of fog formation.

The NCM reported that temperatures are expected to remain warm, noting that the dust suspension will not significantly impact temperatures.

If you were planning a trip to the beach today, you may want to reconsider, as the sea is expected to be rough due to the winds, according to a statement by the NCM. These conditions are expected to last until 6pm.