Initial data suggests that the UAE may see heightened rainfall in certain eastern and southern areas. Key concerns involve rough seas and minor seawater flooding in specific coastal zones.
Last week, the UAE's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) cautioned residents about a possible tropical depression in the Arabian Sea this week, as they tracked a low-pressure system. In light of the NCM's warning and scattered rainfall across the country, the UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) took proactive measures. They held an important meeting with the Joint Assessment Team to evaluate the potential impacts of the severe weather conditions in the Arabian Sea, focusing on national preparedness and safety.
Authorities analyzed initial data indicating that the expected weather phenomena would mostly affect the UAE indirectly. During the meeting, they reviewed methods to boost readiness for addressing any developments during severe weather by monitoring and tracking their trajectory and trends.
In case of deteriorating weather conditions, authorities will disseminate safety guidelines through official UAE channels. Citizens and residents have been advised to stay informed about weather reports and follow advisories to ensure safety. Over the past week, heavy rains, hail, and flooding in valleys have been observed in some parts of the UAE. In Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, waterfalls have flowed down mountains, and wadis are overflowing.
The National Centre of Meteorology previously warned residents about a low-pressure system south of the Arabian Sea near India's western coast. This system is expected to move towards the central Arabian Sea and intensify on October 14 and 15. In response to the tropical depression, Oman's National Emergency Management Committee has activated the National Emergency Management Centre, along with sectors and sub-committees in the governorates of South Al Sharqiyah, Al Wusta, and Dhofar. The Met Department anticipates tropical conditions affecting these areas.
They are increasing readiness and preparedness to address any resulting impacts. The Committee urged all citizens and residents to take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property, and to obtain information from official sources while adhering to provided guidance.
These rainy conditions are expected as the rainy 'Al Wasmi' season in the UAE commences in mid-October and lasts until December 6. This marks the beginning of colder months, signaling the first signs of winter. According to the weather forecast, rainy conditions will persist for the next few days, with rain showers in eastern areas becoming more frequent. The forecast also noted that these rains in the eastern parts of the country are typical for this time of year. While the rainy conditions will continue for the next few days, they are expected to diminish by Tuesday.
The wind patterns in the Arabian Sea, which usually rotate clockwise during summer and bring monsoon rains to India's west coast, are now transitioning before fully shifting to an anticlockwise flow. This significant shift signifies the end of the monsoon season and the potential onset of winter rains for regions like Somalia in the Horn of Africa.
