Rain, shamal winds likely; mercury may drop further

More rain and a further drop in daytime temperatures in several parts, especially the western and coastal UAE, are expected as another shamal is expected to hit the land within two days following the current moderate weather. The National Centre for Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) said that light rain has been predicted in the Western Region on Tuesday. The day will be partly cloudy in general. Light to moderate winds and moderate sea are expected. Wednesday will be partly cloudy and the clouds will increase over some areas, especially the coasts and the west with chances of light rain. Light to moderate winds in general may freshen at times. The sea will be moderate to rough. Met office sources in Sharjah added that the expected shamal may hit the region on Wednesday or Thursday and cool winds may further reduce the day temperature. However, the fluctuating weather will not delay the onset of summer by May 1, they added. The meteorologists said that the maximum day temperature is still low at 32°C and the pleasant weather may continue for another week, with the northwesterly shamal winds hitting the land. Monday was partly cloudy in general, especially in the south of the country where there were some light showers. The clouds increased over some areas, especially the coasts and western areas, but no rain was reported in Sharjah or Dubai. The wind was light to moderate and the sea was also moderate. The weather has been cloudy and rainy in Dubai and Sharjah since last Saturday. The UAE national weather office has warned motorists of slippery roads and seafarers of rough seas following the rain. It has also advised motorists to be cautious on the roads while driving because of low visibility due to dusty winds. The current unstable weather is associated with surface depression, an extension of low pressure in the upper layer of the atmosphere. The NCMS has predicted increased clouds over the western region during these days. As per the weather bureau forecast, active and strong winds are expected, which will stir dust and sand reducing horizontal visibility in open and interior areas on Wednesday.