Rain is expected in parts of the UAE on Sunday afternoon, according to a warning from the National Center of Meteorology (NCM). The forecast indicates the development of convective cumulus clouds over parts of the eastern region, which may bring rain along with fresh and strong winds.
The NCM said wind speeds could reach 45 kilometers per hour between 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, potentially raising dust and reducing visibility in affected areas. The most active conditions are expected in eastern regions, where cloud development is likely to increase in the afternoon and evening.
The weather department said the weather is being influenced by an expanding surface low pressure system from the east coupled with a surface high pressure system from the west and a weak aerial low pressure system. The NCM added that conditions may include the formation of convective clouds, intermittent precipitation and gusty winds, with dust likely to rise in exposed areas.
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Rain in the UAE
The forecast comes amid intermittent summer rains in parts of the UAE. In recent weeks, several eastern and mountainous regions have experienced brief but intense downpours associated with the formation of convective clouds, a common feature of the country’s summer weather.
Precipitation intensity varied from one location to another, reflecting the highly localized nature of convective weather systems.
Residents and motorists shared videos on social media showing heavy downpours in the eastern mountainous areas, including Shawka and other parts of the Eastern Region. This highlights the sudden and short-lived nature of these weather events.
According to NCM, such summer showers are not unusual in the UAE. They occur when moist air interacts with high surface temperatures, causing the formation of convective clouds that can produce rain and gusty winds. Although these systems are often short-lived and scattered, they can provide temporary relief from extreme heat.
The current weather pattern is also driven by seasonal changes as the UAE enters a period known as ‘Rawai’, characterized by increased cloud formation, sporadic rainfall and a slight drop in temperature before the onset of peak summer conditions.
During severe weather conditions, authorities are warning residents of risks including reduced visibility, slippery roads and flash flooding in wadis and low-lying areas. Motorists are advised to monitor speed limit changes displayed on electronic road signs during rain.
Residents are warned to avoid visiting valleys and flooded areas when it rains, as flash flooding can occur quickly even after short periods of heavy rainfall.
While temperatures may cool briefly during such periods, the broader summer trend remains strong, with values ​​expected to rise above 50C at times in the coming weeks, according to the NCM.