UAE weather alert: Strong winds and blowing dust to reduce visibility; police urge caution on roads

Dust storm alert: Drive with care—no phones, no distractions, say Abu Dhabi Police

Last updated:
Manuel Almario, Senior News Editor
1 MIN READ
A dust-covered highway in Abu Dhabi. Motorists have been warned to be careful on highways.
A dust-covered highway in Abu Dhabi. Motorists have been warned to be careful on highways.
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Dubai: The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a weather warning for strong southeasterly winds sweeping across parts of the UAE today, Wednesday, with wind speeds reaching up to 40 km/h. The gusts are expected to cause blowing dust and sand, significantly reducing horizontal visibility to less than 2,000 meters in some coastal and internal areas.

The advisory is in effect from 8.45 am to 5.00 pm and follows an earlier forecast of unstable weather conditions, including extreme heat and the potential for convective rainfall in eastern regions.

In response to the hazardous driving conditions, Abu Dhabi Police have urged motorists to exercise extreme caution.

“Due to low visibility caused by high winds and dust, we advise drivers to remain alert and reduce speed,” the police said in an official statement. “For your safety and the safety of others on the road, please avoid using mobile phones or taking videos while driving.”

Residents are also advised to stay indoors when possible, secure loose objects outdoors, and stay informed through official weather channels.

Manuel Almario
Manuel AlmarioSenior News Editor
Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful. Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says. Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added. “In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.” Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.
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