Residents in parts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced heavy rainfall and even hail on Monday, August 3rd. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts that precipitation is expected in several regions of the country over the next five days, as atmospheric conditions favor the formation of convective clouds.
Unstable weather is also anticipated across the wider Persian Gulf region. Authorities in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Oman are warning of persistent thunderstorms in several locations.
Visual materials published by the UAE Storm Center, a weather tracking channel on X, showed heavy hail falling on car windshields along Al Dhaid Road in Sharjah on Monday, August 3rd. The sound of ice balls falling on the road was clearly audible in one of the videos.
The national weather authority issued a warning for residents to follow safety measures, take all necessary precautions, and adhere to local authorities' rules and instructions in case of hail. Residents are also advised to monitor weather forecasts through official channels and be prepared to follow instructions from relevant bodies, avoiding rumors and relying on official NCM reports.
Other video footage on Al Dhaid Road showed the power of the storm. Heavy downpours struck Al Dhaid, Maliha, and Khor Fakkan roads in Sharjah.
NCM Recommendations During Convective Clouds and Heavy Rain
NCM strongly urges residents to observe the following measures when convective clouds and heavy rains occur: follow safety rules during convective clouds; take precautions while driving in rainy conditions; stay away from flash flood and accumulation zones; avoid being in open or elevated areas during thunderstorms and lightning; remain vigilant about downdrafts, which can lead to falling objects and reduced horizontal visibility.
Reasons for Rainfall in the UAE During Summer
Meteorological systems in the region draw moisture from the Gulf of Oman. Combined with rising temperatures and the influence of the eastern mountains, this is predicted by NCM to result in the formation of localized convective clouds over parts of the country, especially in the afternoon. These clouds are capable of bringing precipitation of varying intensity.
The weather in the UAE will depend on the expansion of the surface low-pressure system from the east, which will affect weather conditions. Furthermore, the expansion of a weak upper low-pressure system will influence the weather.
Will Temperatures Decrease in the UAE?
Despite the forecast for rain, temperatures will remain high. Maximum values in inland areas on Monday may reach between 45°C and 50°C, while coastal and island maximums are expected to be within 42°C – 47°C. Mountain temperatures are expected to range from 33°C to 39°C.
On Tuesday, August 4th, temperatures across the country will fluctuate between 30°C and 47°C, with maximums expected in Dubai and Abu Dhabi at 45°C and 46°C, respectively.
Unstable Weather in the Persian Gulf Region
The Saudi Arabian National Center of Meteorology forecasts thunderstorms in various areas of Asir, Jazan, Al Baha, the highlands of Mecca, and Najran until the end of the week. It has called on residents to monitor the latest weather forecasts and alerts through its website, the Anwaa application, and official social media channels.
In Oman, strong thunderstorms are expected to persist over the Hajar Mountains, with rain clouds extending to parts of the North Sharqiyah, South Sharqiyah, and Dhahirah governorates. Authorities reported that cumulonimbus clouds will continue to develop over the Hajar range, bringing scattered rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds, with conditions likely to spread to additional areas soon.
