Summer showers hit southern parts of RAK

Heavy showers on southern areas of Ras Al Khaimah.

Thunder storms accompanied by hailstones lashed across the southern areas of Ras Al Khaimah on Tuesday and Wednesday, causing unsteady weather condition in the emirate.
According to Emiratis and other residents, it rained continuously for two hours from 12.30pm to 2.30pm on Tuesday. It rained on Wednesday morning, too.
The unexpected summer shower flooded the mountainous region raising the water levels in low-lying areas and the mercury levels dropped significantly in many parts of the southern areas. Residents, in large numbers were seen outside enjoying the rains.
Raising a warning, a police source said it is dangerous for people to go out in unstable weather, especially in mountainous areas. "It is risky to go out or drive during heavy showers and thunder storm."
Residents said that heavy rains hit areas of Shawkah, Al Aym Valley in Al Gheil, and Azan.
Rashid Saeed, a local from Shawkah area, said even after the heavy rains, the sky remained cloudy. "More showers are expected in Kadra, Azan, Al Gheil, and Shawkah," he said.
Ali Salem, an Emirati, said the temperature and humidity levels have significantly dropped after the showers. "The rains have purified the air, and even the roads are cleaner," he added.
Akram Saleh, a Sudanese resident said that though the valleys were filled with water no farms or houses have been flooded or badly-affected. Last week, it rained heavily for over an hour hours ion the Dafta valley, 100km to the south of RAK city.
"I like this kind of break amidst the high temperature and dense humidity," said Mohammed Abdul Sattar, a resident of Shawkah area.
Meanwhile, the RAK police deployed more patrols to control traffic flow at the areas hit with the seasonal showers, and urged drivers to take due precautionary measures.
"The public are urged to avoid the valleys and slippery roads, and contact the central operations room in case of emergency."
Ajman city also witnessed a light drizzle in the afternoon on Wednesday leading to a drop in mercury levels.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com