On Friday, August 23, the UAE's weather department reported rain and hail in certain regions, offering relief to residents from the summer heat. Heavy to moderate rainfall was observed in Al Ain within the emirate of Abu Dhabi and in Ras Al Khaimah, as stated by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
In Shukah, located in the eastern part of the country, residents paused to admire the stunning view of hailstones as the wadi stream overflowed. The UAE's weather-related social media account, storm_ae, shared a video capturing this scene. Another video from Stormcentre showcased the sound of hail hitting the road and the presence of puddles due to the heavy rainfall.
The weather department issued an orange alert for the formation of convective clouds and fresh winds, which at times caused blowing dust. This alert was in effect from 5pm to 8pm on August 23. The Abu Dhabi Media Office also issued a warning due to the severe weather conditions in Al Ain, advising the public to follow modified speed limits, avoid valleys, carry first aid kits, and prepare alternative light sources.
Abu Dhabi Police encouraged drivers to exercise caution due to the rain and to adhere to the variable speed limits displayed on signs and electronic guidance boards. Earlier, the NCM had issued a yellow alert for convective clouds linked to rainfall and fresh winds that caused blowing dust, effective from 2.15pm to 8pm.
The meteorological department had predicted rainfall in the eastern areas that afternoon. Earlier in the week, the NCM forecasted that from Monday, August 19, to Friday, August 23, the weather would be partly cloudy to cloudy across most areas of the country, with a possibility of rainfall in the eastern and southern regions.
