Residents in the UAE are in for a damp and breezy Christmas, as rain is expected in several areas on Wednesday, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
The NCM has issued red and yellow alerts due to thick fog in many parts of the country. Motorists are advised to watch out for reduced visibility, which could last until 9 AM on December 25.
Reduced Speed Limits in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Police have urged drivers to exercise caution while driving in foggy conditions. Speed limits have been temporarily reduced to 80 km/hr in certain areas, and motorists are encouraged to follow the speed changes displayed on electronic boards.
Rough Seas and High Winds
A yellow alert has also been issued for the Oman Sea, warning of rough sea conditions. Fresh winds reaching up to 40 km/hr may create waves as high as 6 feet. This alert remains in effect until 2:30 AM on Thursday.
Cloudy Skies and Rain in Some Areas
The weather will be partly cloudy to cloudy, especially in eastern, northern, and coastal regions. Some areas are expected to see rain, while nights will turn humid, particularly in internal parts of the country. This humidity is likely to persist into Thursday morning.
Unstable Weather Conditions to Continue
The NCM forecasts that unstable weather will linger until Thursday due to a surface low-pressure system from the Southeast. Periodic rainfall is expected in coastal areas, islands, and northern and eastern regions, with skies staying partly to fully cloudy.
Winds and Temperature Update
Light to moderate winds, occasionally freshening, will blow across the UAE from the southwest to northwest. These winds will range from 10-25 km/hr and may reach speeds of up to 40 km/hr.
Temperatures are expected to drop to as low as 6°C in mountainous areas and rise to a high of 28°C in internal regions.