Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Parts of Abu Dhabi were swept by a dust storm on Thursday (August 21) as unstable weather continued across the UAE, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Strong winds reduced horizontal visibility in Al Hamra and Tarfa in the Al Dhafra region. The NCM issued a yellow alert for dusty conditions across the country, with winds expected to reach up to 40kph until 7pm on Thursday. Convective clouds are forecast to form over eastern, southern, and internal areas, bringing rainfall of varying intensity along with possible lightning and thunder. Rain is expected to continue in parts of the country through Friday (August 22), particularly in the southeast and Al Ain regions, which have already experienced heavier-than-usual showers this summer. On Wednesday (August 20), rare rainfall was also recorded in Dubai’s Margham area, highlighting the unusual weather in a region that typically receives less than 100mm of rain annually. Meteorologists attribute the unsettled weather to the Intertropical Convergence Zone moving northwards towards the UAE, coinciding with low-pressure systems and moist air masses from the Arabian Sea and Sea of Oman. The NCM advised residents to take precautions during strong winds and poor visibility and avoid valleys during heavy rainfall. ICA/Expat Media
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