Watch: Heavy rain, hail batter UAE; residents warned of 'hazardous weather' as Cyclone Tej deepens

Although it is currently a category 2 storm, experts expect it to deepen into a category 3 one within the next 24 hours

Read more...
by

Web Desk

Published: Sun 22 Oct 2023, 5:18 PM

Last updated: Mon 23 Oct 2023, 12:47 PM

Heavy rains hit parts of the UAE on Sunday afternoon, as predicted by the National Centre of Meteorology.

The authority has issued orange and yellow alerts in parts of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah as the downpour increases. The alert is in place until 8pm tonight.

Advertising
Advertising

The NCM had earlier said that the UAE would see the effects of Cyclone Tej, a tropical storm that is brewing in the Arabian Sea. Although it is currently a category 2 cyclone, experts expect it to deepen into a category 3 one within the next 24 hours.

The authority posted videos of cars driving through the heavy downpour in mountainous regions.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

A video shared by social media handle Storm Centre shows massive flooding in an area south of Shawka, which is a town near the Oman border. The roads have turned into rivers of brown, as massive streams of run-off water create waterfalls.

Visibility seems to have reduced, as large hailstones pour down, striking cars and buildings.

Cars have their lowlights on, as fog and heavy rains blend together to make driving conditions difficult.

The video below shows huge hailstones pelting a car, creating a carpet of ice on the ground.

Other videos show residents marvelling at the unstable weather, out with umbrellas. However, it should be noted that those who put themselves or others in danger during unstable weather conditions in the UAE could be fined according to the law.

Penalties for 'storm chasing'

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Interior announced new rules that prohibit people from gathering near or enter flooded valleys or dams during rains and foul weather. Doing so now comes with fines of up to Dh2,000, 23 black points and confiscation of the vehicle for two months.

The exact fine amount and number of black points that a motorist can get for each weather-related violation (including taking pictures and videos of rain while driving, driving dangerously, etc.) can be found here.

Alert issued

The NCM issued an alert earlier, warning motorists to exercise extra caution during these weather conditions.

The following three rules are to be followed when driving in the rain:

1. Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. If you do drive, be careful, alert, and vigilant in order to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

2. Turn on low-beam lights when visibility is reduced.

3. Follow weather forecasts from official channels, be prepared to follow instructions given by authorities.

The NCM also asked residents to refrain from spreading rumours and get their information from official sources only.

The UAE is expected to experience rain in the afternoon tomorrow as well. The NCM has also said that there is a chance of fog forming later in the day.

ALSO READ:

Web Desk

Published: Sun 22 Oct 2023, 5:18 PM

Last updated: Mon 23 Oct 2023, 12:47 PM

Recommended for you