UAE Weather Update: Heavy Rain, Hail, and NCM Forecast

The UAE witnessed dramatic weather changes this week. Heavy rain, hail, and thunderstorms hit several regions, with Al Ain seeing the most impact. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued updates for the coming days. The forecast warns of more showers, cloudy skies, and unstable conditions over the weekend.

Residents are urged to remain alert as convective clouds and strong winds may develop. While the rain will bring some relief from the heat, high humidity and soaring temperatures are still expected across many regions.

Heavy Showers in Al Ain

On Friday evening, Al Ain experienced an intense storm. Heavy rainfall, hail showers, and loud thunder rolled across the city. Streets quickly filled with water, and residents shared videos of the storm online. Bright lightning flashes lit up the skies, creating a rare sight in the desert city.

The NCM explained that the storm formed due to unstable atmospheric conditions. Hot desert air mixed with cooler air, creating convective clouds that led to heavy rain and hail. While the rain cooled the area, it also caused some flooding and travel delays.

Weather Forecast for the Weekend

The NCM has confirmed that rainfall is not over yet. More showers are expected this weekend, especially on Saturday afternoon. The eastern and southern regions are most likely to see convective clouds. These areas often see cloud development first, before rain spreads to the interior.

In Dubai, temperatures started at 32°C on Saturday morning. As the day moves on, the skies are expected to shift from mostly clear to partly cloudy. Residents may also experience sudden rainfall in some areas during the afternoon.

Temperature Outlook Across the UAE

Despite the forecast for rain, the UAE remains hot. Temperatures will stay in the mid-40°C range across most parts of the country.

• Coastal and island regions may see highs of 42°C and lows around 35°C in the evening.
• Interior regions are hotter, with temperatures ranging from 41°C to 46°C.
• Mountain areas remain cooler, with daytime highs between 30°C and 36°C.

This range shows how the UAE’s geography affects the weather. Coastal areas face heat with humidity, deserts face dry and extreme heat, while mountains bring cooler relief.

Strong Winds and Blowing Dust

Winds will stay light to moderate for most of the time. However, they may occasionally strengthen, reaching up to 40 km/h. These gusts may stir up sand and dust, reducing visibility on roads.

Drivers are advised to stay cautious, especially when dust storms form suddenly. Reduced visibility can make driving risky, while slippery roads after rainfall add to the danger.

Humidity Levels Remain High

The heat is not the only challenge. Humidity will remain high across the country. Levels are expected to stay between 70% and 90%, particularly in coastal areas.

High humidity makes the heat feel much worse. It slows the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating. Doctors warn residents to drink enough water and avoid going out during peak afternoon hours. Prolonged outdoor exposure in such conditions may lead to heat stress or exhaustion.

Why is the Weather Changing?

The NCM explained the reasons behind this unusual weather. A surface low-pressure system is moving in from the east. At the same time, a weak upper-air low-pressure system is also active.

When these two systems combine, they create perfect conditions for convective clouds. These clouds can grow large and heavy, releasing rain, hail, or thunderstorms. Mountain regions make this process stronger, as rising air currents push moist air upwards.

Such weather events are not rare in the UAE. They usually happen during seasonal shifts, especially in late summer and early autumn.

Calm Seas Despite the Rain

Interestingly, sea conditions will remain calm despite the unstable weather over land. Both the Arabian Gulf and the Oman Sea are expected to stay slight.

This is good news for cargo shipping, fishing activities, and tourism boats. It also means a lower chance of coastal flooding, even when heavy rain hits inland areas.

Safety Precautions for Residents

Authorities have urged residents to take precautions during the unstable weather. Some of the key safety tips include:

• For drivers: Slow down during rainfall and keep headlights on in dust storms. Roads may become slippery after rain.
• For outdoor workers: Stay hydrated, rest often, and watch for signs of heat stress. Avoid working outdoors during lightning storms.
• For families: Avoid visiting low-lying areas that may flood quickly. Stay updated with official weather alerts.

These steps are simple but essential for staying safe during sudden weather changes.

Weather and Its Impact on Daily Life

The weather shift has already affected daily activities in the UAE. In Dubai, outdoor cafes and restaurants have had to adjust plans due to sudden showers. Beach resorts and desert safari operators are also watching the forecast closely.

For farmers, the rain is both a blessing and a challenge. It helps crops and groundwater levels but may also damage plants when hail occurs. Families in Al Ain, meanwhile, welcomed the cool relief after weeks of extreme heat.

The Role of the National Centre of Meteorology

The NCM plays a vital role in tracking UAE weather. The agency uses satellites, radar, and advanced models to predict conditions across the country. It issues updates, warnings, and safety tips for the public.

The NCM also runs the cloud seeding program, which aims to boost rainfall by seeding developing clouds with salt particles. This program is part of the UAE’s long-term water security strategy.

By providing accurate forecasts, the NCM helps keep residents safe and supports sectors such as aviation, shipping, and farming.

How Long Will the Rain Last?

According to the NCM, unstable conditions will continue until Wednesday, September 10. During this period, scattered showers, thunderstorms, and hail may occur in different regions.

Not every area will experience rain, but forecasts suggest that eastern, southern, and interior regions have the highest chances. Residents are advised to remain prepared and to adjust travel or outdoor plans accordingly.

By mid-September, the UAE usually starts its transition into autumn. This brings more cloud formations and occasional rainfall, gradually reducing the intensity of the summer heat.

Social Media Buzz

The hailstorm in Al Ain quickly became a trending topic on social media. Residents shared videos of roads covered in white hail, which looked almost like a winter scene. Photos of lightning and thunder also captured attention across platforms.

Some people celebrated the rare weather as a refreshing break. Others, however, highlighted traffic jams, flooded roads, and damage caused by hail. The mixed reactions reflect the impact of sudden weather changes on everyday life in the UAE.