UAE may see heaviest rainfall in a decade: weather dept

Muaz Shabandri / 21 November 2013

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the northern emirates are expected to receive heavy rains over the weekend. 

Rain in Shaikh Mohammed Bin Zayed road, Dubai on Thursday morning, 21st of November, 2013. -KT Photo by Shihab

Weather officials in the UAE are predicting the heaviest rainfall in a decade as heavy thunderstorms and lightning led to rainfall in different parts of the UAE early on Thursday morning.

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A low-pressure weather system has affected the entire region and several areas of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and northern emirates are set to receive moderate to heavy rains over the weekend.
A meteorologist at UAE’s National Center of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) confirmed the weather conditions were caused by a low-pressure trough system affecting Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and heavy rains were expected to lash most parts of the country.
“Heavy rainfall is expected in most regions of UAE and it is likely to increase tomorrow and continue till Saturday. Parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, northern and western regions will receive rains, thunderstorm and lightning,” said an NCMS meteorologist.
A senior official at NCMS denied rumours suggesting the possibility of any tropical storm passing through the UAE. However, he confirmed cloud seeding techniques were being used to increase rainfall in southern areas of UAE.

“Cloud seeding is used in areas where there is good cloud cover but no rainfall. It ensures such areas also receive adequate rainfall,” said the official.
Rains are expected to become heavier on Friday, with chances of continuous rain till Saturday. Schools were closed early on Thursday and precautionary measures were being put in place to prevent accidents or any emergency.
A spokesperson at Dubai’ Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) confirmed: “Due to extreme weather conditions, KHDA has advised all schools and nurseries in Dubai to close for the day, to ensure children get home safely.” 

The last day of Dubai Air Show was also called off temporarily. An email from the organisers read: “Dubai Airshow is closed for now, we advise people to refrain from travelling to the site. Further information will follow shortly.”