27 Jul 2022 | 11:49 AM UTC
UAE: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least July 31
Severe weather forecast across much of the UAE through at least July 31. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough seas, dust storms, and possible flooding are forecast across parts of the United Arab Emirates through at least July 31. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has warned that due to the extension of a surface level low pressure system from the east and another low pressure system higher in the atmosphere unstable weather is likely to persist over parts of the country over the coming days. The heaviest rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast in eastern and western regions. Moderate-to-strong winds could cause blowing sand and dust in some areas, which could reduce horizontal visibility and lead to transport disruptions. Rough seas are also expected along the Arabia Gulf and Oman Sea coasts.
As of July 27, the NCM has issued orange and yellow warnings (the middle and lowest tiers on a three-tier scale) for convective rainy clouds, rough seas, and possible dust storms across eastern areas of the country and off the north coast. The NCM also issued an alert July 27 advising those in some eastern areas to take precautions due to the forecast heavy rainfall and be vigilant of flash floods. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall and flooding have been reported in several areas of the country July 27, including parts of Sharjah, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah emirates, as well as Al Ain in eastern Abu Dhabi Emirate. Flooded roads caused transport disruptions in the city of Khor Fakkan in Sharjah Emirate. Additional downpours over the coming days will likely trigger further flooding, especially over areas where the ground is already saturated.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities may issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, and/or landslides impact utility networks.
Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.
Transport
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the affected area. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.
Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea coasts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Review contingency plans. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
