Look: Thunderstorms sweep UAE as heavy rain, lightning leave residents in awe

Today's weather forecast

After heavy rains and thunder across the country on March 25, the country is expected to continue to witness such conditions.

Conditions are expected to ease slightly today, with the impact of the low-pressure system relatively weakening. However, light to moderate rainfall may still occur at intervals, mainly over islands and northern areas.

However, the final wave of unstable weather is forecast between tonight and Friday.

Wadis continue to flow

Wadis began flowing after heavy rains yesterday, prompting authorities to remind residents to stay away from the strong currents of water. Take a look at this video from Storm Centre that shows them still flowing:

'Pray in your homes'

On Wednesday, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat asked residents to pray at home, instead of heading to the nearest mosque, owing to unstable weather conditions.

Mosque imams have also been instructed to to remind people via loudspeakers immediately after the call to prayer: “Pray in your homes” in all regions impacted by rain, advising worshippers accordingly based on local weather conditions.

Worshippers may also combine Dhuhr and Asr prayers, and Maghrib and Isha prayers if they are performed in mosques, depending on the weather conditions in each area.

Fact check!

On Wednesday, strong winds of up to 74kmph swept parts of the UAE, particularly in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region, as unstable weather conditions continued across the country.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), wind speeds reached:

• Up to 74kmph in Al Ghuwaifat

• Around 71kmph in Mussafah

• Up to 65kmph in offshore areas

Despite the intensity, the NCM stressed that these conditions are not a cyclone, pushing back against viral claims circulating on social media, KT's Haneen Dajani reported.

Watch: Cars get swept as wadis flow in Oman

In a shocking video shared by Storm Centre on Instagram, two cars can be seen getting swept away by the flow of the wadi's current. The drivers can be seen attempting to navigate their way out as they struggle to regain control of their vehicles.

Watch below:

Oman Police rescue truck driver  

Authorities in Oman have rescued an Asian truck driver after his vehicle was swept away while attempting to cross Wadi Batha.

He has been transported to a safe area.

The Royal Oman Police has urged residents to follow advisories and avoid crossing wadis to prevent legal accountability.

Conditions to intensify tomorrow

The NCM said conditions will start over western regions, including Al Dhafra, before extending to Abu Dhabi during the night and early hours of Friday, KT's Sahim Salim reports.

By Friday daytime, the system is expected to spread further, covering northern areas, Al Ain and eastern regions.

This movement follows a familiar pattern seen in recent days, where rain systems developed over western areas before gradually shifting north and east across the country.

What the radar shows right now

Looking at the radar right now, there is a significant band of active storm cells pushing in from the Arabian Gulf and moving directly over the coastline.

The green returns across the wider area show that we have widespread light to moderate rainfall already affecting the region. However, the deep blue and red cores indicate some heavy, intense downpours in those specific pockets.

The red and orange cores point to extremely heavy rainfall rates that will possibly cause localised flooding on the roads, very poor visibility, and significant disruption on the ground.

Areas of highest rainfall in Oman

The Wilayat of Ibra in Oman recorded the highest amount of rainfall during the period from March 20 until today, at 292mm, followed by the Wilayat of Bahla with 212mm, then the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi with 190mm of precipitation, according to monitoring stations.

Downpour begins in Dubai

Heavy rains have started pouring in Dubai as dark clouds shroud skies. Strong winds seem to be blowing, as cars slow to a crawl. Visibility has dropped severely.

Watch as rains pour in Ajman

Dubai Police reminds residents to stay safe

Dubai Police have issued an urgent road safety advisory urging all motorists across the emirate to exercise extreme caution as heavy rainfall continues to affect road conditions throughout Dubai and the wider UAE.

Police are urging motorists to reduce their speed and maintain a greater following distance than usual, warning that failure to do so increases the risk of serious collisions.

Drivers are also being advised to remain continuously alert to the behaviour of surrounding vehicles, particularly during sudden slowdowns in traffic flow.

Dubai Police have specifically warned against driving through standing water, as shallow puddles can also destabilise a vehicle.

Watch: Heavy rains batter parts of Dubai

Watch as parts of Dubai are hit with rainfall that intensified within minutes and turned normally busy highways into slow-moving queues.

Heavy rain could be heard battering windshields, and homes as trees swayed under the pressure of the strong winds.

Visibility dropped to low levels at the peak of the downpour, with thick curtains of rain.

Rainfall accumulation alert issued in UAE 

UAE's Met Department has issued an alert informing of possible rainfall accumulation over northern and the eastern parts of the country.

The alert has been issued till 8pm.

Look: Trees uprooted after heavy rains in Ajman yesterday

Trees were uprooted and fell over cars in Ajman after a deluge of rain in the emirate yesterday. Residents could be seen attempting to clear the havoc caused by the weather.

Here are some scenes from Ajman today:

Emirates issues advisory 

Emirates has asked passengers to arrive at least two hours before departure as the Dubai undergoes adverse weather conditions on March 26 and 27.

Heavy downpour in Ajman floods streets

Cars in Ajman could be seen wading through water accumulated on streets. Vehicles were making ripples in the rainwater as they attempted to navigate through flooded roads.

Parking remains free in Sharjah

Authorities in Sharjah, in a move to offer relief to residents, said that public parking will be free as the emirate undergoes adverse weather conditions.

Public parking is free for all, except smart yards, until further notice from Sharjah Municipality.

Omani resident found dead 

An Omani resident was found dead after his vehicle was swept away yesterday evening in a valley in Manah.

Dubai RTA to send real-time alerts about water accumulation during rains

Dubai drivers will get instant, real-time alerts about water accumulation on roads as part of a revamped weather response system, KT's Nasreen Abdulla reports.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has deployed a unified communication platform that tracks flooding across the city in real time, with field teams and smart systems working together to ensure drivers are immediately informed of hazardous conditions.

“We studied past rainfall and flooding, identified high-risk areas, and prepared targeted plans for pumps and tankers,” said Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Enterprise Command and Control Department and Second Deputy of the Crisis and Emergency Team at RTA.

Dubai Police deploy patrols across Hatta 

Brigadier Mubarak bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, Director of Hatta Police Station, has confirmed that patrols have been deployed across Hatta.

They have been deployed to respond to emergency reports in mountainous regions and valleys, as well as to manage traffic incidents during the unstable weather conditions currently affecting the country.

He explained that these patrols are specially equipped to navigate rough terrain with custom tyres, advanced smart devices, and modern communication systems linked to the Command and Control Centre.

"They carry a comprehensive range of rescue equipment, and the police personnel are trained to respond to emergencies with the utmost professionalism around the clock,” he added.

Sharjah residents laud 'proper planning'

A major concern for most Sharjah residents amid heavy rains has not been an issue this time around, KT's SM Ayaz Zakir has reported. 

Earlier, roads would remain flooded for a few days, bringing traffic to a standstill. However, this time around, many residents and workers said the situation was handled well, with water being cleared quickly and movement returning to normal within hours.

Afsar Ghulam, a taxi driver who has been working in Sharjah for 15 years, said he clearly noticed the difference on the roads.

“This time, I saw water-extracting trucks already stationed in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage,” he said.

Hourly forecast in Dubai

Dubai is in for a wet, thundery evening. Temperatures will be at 28°C — here's a look at an hour-by-hour breakdown of the forecast:

3pm: Temperatures will be 29°C, winds will blow at 31kmph.

4pm: Thunderstorms expected. Temperature eases slightly to 28°C, winds calm a touch to 29kmph.

5pm: Thunderstorms expected to continue. Temperatures to hit 28°C, winds nudge back up to 31kmph.

6pm: Stormy conditions to continue, 28°C, winds at 32 kmph and beginning to strengthen.

7pm: Unsettled weather persists into the evening. 28°C, winds climbing to 34kmph.

8pm: Thunderstorms, 28°C, winds holding at 34kmph.

9pm: 28°C, winds picking up further to 37kmph.

10pm: Still thundery. 28°C, winds now at 40kmph — noticeably strong.

11pm: Thunderstorms ongoing, winds surging to 50kmph. 28°C.

12am: Thunderstorms give way to heavy rain, but winds hit their peak at 58 km/h. 28°C. The worst of the wind is around midnight.

Traffic alert

Dubai Police have informed motorists of water accumulation in Al Qusais in the direction of Sharjah. They have urged drivers to exercise caution.

Residents battle water accumulation in Ajman

Waterfalls gush in Ras Al Khaimah

After a relentless cascade of rain, waterfalls in Ras Al Khaimah's mountains began gushing. The massive waterfalls then continued to join into smaller streams in a rare yet stunning occurrence.

Sharjah Police close street to Fujairah 

Sharjah Police have announced a temporary closure of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street from Al Madam City to Fujairah in both directions, due to rainfall and the flow of wadis.

We urge drivers to exercise caution and care, and to take alternative routes during the closure period.

Ajman residents help remove fallen palm tree

A palm tree fell in the middle of the road in Ajman, and residents came together to help remove in a heartwarming display of solidarity and community feeling.

Kuwait urges companies to suspend outdoor work

Due to the current exceptional weather conditions and in order to provide a safe working environment for employees, the Public Authority for Manpower in Kuwait has called upon all companies whose nature of business requires work at outdoor sites, including order delivery companies, contracting companies, and others, to temporarily suspend outdoor operations, in order to preserve the safety of workers.

Kuwait issues advisory for residents amid rainy weather

For the safety of residents during the rainy season, Kuwait's General Fire Force said that it is necessary to:

• Stay at home and avoid going out except in necessary cases, while taking care not to go out for sea or land trips.

• Ensure the safety of electrical wiring and that it is tightly insulated.

• Perform maintenance and cleaning of rainwater drainage outlets.

• Ensure the operation of suction pumps, especially for owners of cellars, and it is also preferable to monitor roofs and balconies to ensure that rainwater does not accumulate in them.

• Adhere to the instructions issued by the official authorities and do not pay attention to rumours.

Ras Al Khaimah police warn of heavy rain

The police warned of heavy rain currently falling in the areas of Kadra, Shawaka, Al Mani'i, Al Watan Street and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Street.

They advised residents to stay away from wadis, reduce speed and excercise caution.

More road closures in Sharjah

Sharjah Police announced a temporary closure of Al Ezwah Street (Suhaila) in Al Dhaid city. The closure affects traffic coming from Ras Al Khaimah towards Al Manama, and from Al Dhaid towards Masafi. This is due to rainfall and flowing water in the Suhaila area.

Drivers are advised to be careful, use alternative routes during the closure, and stay away from valleys and dams where water is flowing, for their safety.

How to stay safe during strong winds, heavy rain, hail

UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority has issued guidelines on how to stay safe during heavy rain, strong winds and hail.

"Together, we face severe weather conditions with awareness and commitment by following official guidance and working together to protect lives and property," they said on X.

Heavy rain expected on March 27

UAE's National Center of Meteorology has predicted that the weather on March 27 will be partly cloudy to cloudy with some cumulus clouds, with heavy rain falling over most areas of the country at intervals, and a drop in temperatures.

Dark clouds above Burj Khalifa

Dubai Media office shared images of the emirate after heavy rain on March 27.

Take a look:

Bus services from Dubai to Sharjah, Ajman temporarily suspended

Dubai's Road and Transport Authority has informed that bus services to Sharjah and Ajman will be temporarily suspended from 7pm on Thursday, March 26 due to weather conditions and water accumulation on roads.

"Our teams are currently working in coordination with the relevant authorities to resume services as soon as possible. Please follow our social media channels for further updates regarding service resumption. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation," the RTA said.

Advisory for food truck owners

Abu Dhabi Municipality has issued guidelines for food truck owners during weather fluctuations.

Safety advisory in Bahrain

Bahrain's General Command of the Coast Guard has urged sea-goers to exercise utmost caution and vigilance, given that the Kingdom is sometimes exposed to winds of high speed, in order to preserve their safety.

Watch: Severe water logging in Sharjah

Sharjah commuters had to navigate traffic amid heavily water-logged roads after heavy showers hit UAE on Thursday.

KT Video by Shihab

Watch: Abu Dhabi Police manage traffic amid heavy rain

Abu Dhabi Police shared a video of them continues field efforts to enhance traffic safety during weather fluctuations.

Look: Post-rain scenes from Sharjah

Pants rolled up, balancing umbrellas, driving through water — KT photographer Shihab captured residents and commuters on the road after heavy showers in Sharjah on Thursday.

UAE reminds public of penalties for violations during rainy weather

In the interest of everyone's safety and the importance of community commitment, UAE's Ministry of Interior has reminded the public of the violations associated with rainy weather:

• Gathering near wadis, floodplains, and dams during rainy weather: Fine Dh1,000 and 6 traffic points.

• Entering wadis while they are flowing, regardless of their level of danger: Fine Dh2,000, 23 traffic points, vehicle impoundment and driving licence suspension for 60 days.

• Obstructing the authorities from carrying out their duties regarding traffic management, ambulance services, and rescue operations during emergencies, disasters, crises, rainfall, and wadi floods: Fine Dh1,000, 4 traffic points, vehicle impoundment and driving licence suspension for 60 days.

Ajman manage traffic amid inclement weather

Ajman Transport Authority said they continue to implement their operational plan during the current weather conditions by intensifying the efforts of public transport teams and taxi vehicles and continuously monitoring traffic, as part of its commitment to the safety of users and ensuring the continuity of services.

Top five recorded rainfall amounts in UAE

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) shared with Khaleej Times the top five recorded rainfall amounts up to the end of Wednesday, March 25.

Al Tawiyen received 47.9mm, Al Marjan 39.7mm, Khor Fakkan 33.3mm, Khatam Al Shaklah 31.6mm, and Khor Fakkan Port received 28.3mm of rainfall.

Rain slows down traffic

Commuters in Dubai, Sharjah reported of bumper to bumper traffic on Thursday evening as water-logged roads slowed down vehicles.

Here's a look at traffic situation in Dubai, Sharjah at 7:45pm on March 26.

Look: Dubai Police field teams monitor road safety

Around the clock, Dubai Police field teams are deployed across the emirate, ensuring public and road safety during current weather conditions.

Ras Al Khaimah declares remote work on March 27

Ras Al Khaimah’s Executive Council has declared that tomorrow, Friday, March 27, will be a remote working day for all employees of the government departments, entities and institutions throughout the emirate.

This decision has been made in response to worsening weather conditions across the country, prioritizing safety for all. Exceptions will be made for jobs that require presence at the workplace, as determined by the relevant authority, they said.

Two women drown in Oman

Rescue teams from the Civil Defense and Ambulance Authority in Al Dhahira Governorate responded to a drowning incident in Ibri Governorate involving two female citizens.

Both were recovered deceased after one attempted to rescue the other from a pond.

Watch: How Dubai Municipality tackled rainy weather conditions

The Dubai Media Office shared a video highlighting the ongoing efforts by Dubai Municipality teams working around the clock under an integrated operational system and proactive plans to ensure a swift response to any reports during the current weather conditions.

Alert for Abu Dhabi motorists

Abu Dhabi Police announced that speed reduction system has been activated to 100 Km/h on Shk. Khalifa Bin Zayed Intl. road, (Al Ghwaifat-Mahmiat Al Soquor Bridge).

Another road closed in Sharjah

The Sharjah Police General Headquarters has announced a temporary closure of Maliha Road from Mahafiz Bridge towards the Central Region, due to flowing valley water in the area.

Drivers have been advised to use alternative routes and follow traffic instructions to ensure their safety.

Leaving for the airport?

Due to adverse weather conditions, travellers have been advised to allow additional time when travelling to DXB or or DWC.
You can check your flight status directly with your airline before heading to the airport.

Earlier, Sharjah Airport had advised all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information due to weather conditions that may affect some flight schedules. They advised passengers to contact their airlines directly to verify the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

UAE weather summary March 26-27

The NCM's weather situation summary for UAE (Thursday, March 26 – Friday, March 27, 2026) read:

• The main weather system is currently located in the far west of the country, with heavy rainfall recorded in scattered areas.

• It is expected to reach Abu Dhabi between 1am and 3am on Friday, extending to Dubai, the northern coasts, and southern inland areas, accompanied by heavy rain.

• It will reach the northern and eastern regions, as well as Al Ain, between 4am and 5am on Friday, with heavy rainfall.

• Some cloud formations will continue, bringing moderate to occasionally heavy rain over scattered areas until Friday night.

Lost car number plates line UAE roads

After the heavy rain that lashed the UAE, a familiar sight has cropped up once again — car number plates sticking out of the side of pavements, echoing a scene that became one of the most defining images of the historic April 2024 floods.

Jebel Jais to stay closed until further notice

Due to the unstable weather conditions, the mountain will remain closed until further notice, it was announced on Thursday.

The destination was closed for visitors after the Iran war broke out, alongwith several other UAE attractions, as a precautionary measure.

Watch: 10 things you can do to stay safe

Abu Dhabi authorities put out an awareness video, outlining 10 practical steps the public can take to stay safe during adverse weather conditions, supporting community preparedness and helping to ensure public safety and protect property.

Watch: Lightning strikes Dubai's skies

As the met department predicted heavy rains overnight, frequent lightnings were spotted in Dubai skies, while howling winds reminded residents inclement weather is far from over.

KT's Laraib Anwer made a video:

UAE issues another weather warning

In light of the prevailing weather conditions across the country, during which some areas may experience rainfall of varying intensity, hail, and active winds accompanied by lightning and thunder, along with reduced horizontal visibility, UAE authorities urged the public to adhere to the following:

• Exercise caution while driving and moving around.

• Reduce speed on the roads and follow traffic rules and instructions.

• Avoid areas prone to valley flows, flash floods, and water accumulations.

• Do not visit the sea or beaches during unstable weather conditions.

The authorities emphasised that the safety of everyone is a top priority, urging the public to follow updates and warnings issued by official and authorized sources.

Watch: Frequent lightning strikes UAE skies

UAE residents witnessed frequent lightning on Thursday night, followed by rains as unstable weather continued.

Video by Isaura Aracil:

Monitoring weather developments

Abu Dhabi authorities said they are monitoring weather developments, continuing response efforts by directing field teams to boost operational readiness and response speed, while mobilising all resources to ensure public safety and maintain efficient service delivery.

Watch: Rain, lightning in UAE

First the lightning, then the thunder, then came the rain. UAE residents braced for another night of unstable weather.

Video by Thanweeruddin Mohammad.

Rains to continue in Dubai till Friday morning

Dubai authorities warned of unstable weather conditions until the morning of Friday, 27 March 2026. The emirate will witness rain of varying intensity, at times accompanied by lightning and thunder.

Wind speed will be occasionally strong, potentially raising dust and sand, which may reduce horizontal visibility.

Lightning above Burj Khalifa!

Dubai media office shared photos of the Burj Khalifa where lightning seemed to strike the absolute tip of the tallest building in the world.

Speed reduction in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Police alerted that speed reduction system has been activated to 100 km/h on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road (Abu Dhabi - Dubai).

UAE authorities assure residents 

The NCEMA issued an advisory assuring residents that in light of the current weather conditions affecting the country, the sounds that may accompany them, such as thunder, are normal and expected.

"We emphasize that in the event of any threat, warnings and instructions will be issued immediately through the National Early Warning System to ensure everyone's safety.

"Please rely only on official sources for information, and avoid sharing or spreading unverified content," they said.

Food delivery ordering paused, cabs unavailable

You might not be able to order a late night snack or a meal, as delivery apps showed several restaurants as "temporarily off" on Thursday night. All restaurants on Deliveroo and Talabat were listed as "closed".

The ride-hailing tab on Careem also displayed a message warning of delays and unavailability.

Why are you seeing orange or purple lightning?

Unlike the paintings you may be used to, lightning isn't always white. In fact, it can come in many different colours, including yellow, brown, pink and red, depending on environmental factors. Here's why these flashes in storms like tonight can change colour:

Orange lightning: Dust, sand or smoke scatters the shorter blue wavelengths of light, allowing warmer tones to dominate. This effect is especially common in hazy or dusty conditions.

Purple or violet lightning: This is linked to gases in the atmosphere. When lightning passes through the air, it energises nitrogen molecules, which can emit bluish and violet light. Under the right conditions, such as when seen through heavy rain, this can give lightning a distinctly purple hue.

Take a look at this shot of lightning over Karama, captured by KT reader Gautham Balasubramaniam:

Speed reduction activated on more Abu Dhabi roads

Speed reduction system has been activated to 60 Km/h on several roads in Abu Dhabi including Al Shwaib Road (Al Khader -Al Shwaib), Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Road, Mohammed Bin Rashid road, Maktoum Bin Rashid road and Al Taff Road.

Unstable weather continues in UAE

Lightning struck, thunders boomed and the skies opened up as fresh rains hit parts of the country on Thursday night.

UAE residents dealt with yet another day of inclement weather, commuting through water-logged roads as traffic slowed down. UAE authorities issued advisories urging residents to exercise caution, avoid beaches and adhere to safety rules during adverse weather.

Dubai RTA suspended bus services to Sharjah and Ajman, while Ras Al Khaimah announced that March27 will be a remote working day for government employees.

NCM announced that country will continue to be affected by a rainy weather system until Friday night.

This blog is now closed, but keep following Khaleej Times for latest updates on the weather conditions in the UAE.