Residents in the United Arab Emirates are facing challenging weather conditions as a dust storm sweeps through the region, significantly reducing visibility and prompting warnings from the National Center of Meteorology (NCM). On April 15, 2025, the NCM issued a dust alert for both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, citing strong northwesterly winds that have caused visibility to drop below 3,000 meters in various areas. This situation is expected to persist until 9 PM, making it crucial for residents, especially those with dust allergies, to stay indoors.
The weather bureau had previously issued alerts earlier in the day, as very dusty conditions and powerful winds began to affect the country. According to the NCM, visibility has plummeted in some areas to as low as 100 meters, which has raised concerns about safety on the roads. Abu Dhabi Police have advised drivers to exercise caution due to these hazardous conditions. In a social media post, they urged motorists to refrain from using their phones or taking videos while driving, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on the road.
As the day progressed, winds were recorded blowing at speeds between 15 to 25 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 40 km/h at times. These strong winds have not only contributed to the dust storm but have also resulted in hazy skies across the region. The NCM has indicated that while dusty conditions are expected to continue, a gradual decrease in dust levels is anticipated by 6 PM on April 15.
Temperatures across coastal areas of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah have remained warm, ranging from 30 to 38°C. The highest temperature recorded in the country on that day reached a scorching 45.4°C in Sweihan (Al Ain) at 12:30 PM. Additionally, humidity levels are expected to peak at around 90 percent, leading to uncomfortable conditions at night, particularly in coastal and internal areas, with a chance of fog formation.
For those planning to spend the day at the beach, the NCM has issued a warning that sea conditions are expected to be rough due to the ongoing winds, which could pose risks for swimmers and boaters alike. This advisory is in effect until 6 PM on the same day, urging caution for anyone venturing into the water.
As the dust storm impacts the UAE, visibility issues are not confined to just the daytime. Reports from across the country indicate that foggy conditions have also developed at night, further complicating the situation. The NCM has issued an alert for suspended dust, stating that winds reaching 40 km/h are causing blowing and suspended dust and sand over some coastal and western internal areas, reducing horizontal visibility to less than 3,000 meters at times.
Looking ahead, the NCM has forecasted that the weather on April 16, 2025, will be partly cloudy and dusty at times. Light to moderate winds are expected to continue, which may lead to further reductions in visibility. Temperatures are projected to rise as high as 40°C across the country, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai seeing highs of 35°C and 34°C, respectively.
However, the mercury is also set to dip, with nighttime temperatures potentially falling to 25°C in Abu Dhabi, 28°C in Dubai, and as low as 20°C in some internal areas. Humidity levels will remain high, ranging from 30 to 70 percent in Abu Dhabi and from 35 to 75 percent in Dubai during the night and into the morning of April 16. This high humidity is expected to contribute to the formation of fog or mist over some coastal and internal northern areas.
As for conditions at sea, the NCM has indicated that they will be moderate to rough in the Arabian Gulf, while the Oman Sea is expected to remain slight. These conditions could affect maritime activities and pose risks for those traveling by boat.
In summary, the weather across the UAE is proving to be quite challenging, with dust storms, reduced visibility, and high temperatures affecting daily life. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this inclement weather.
