Dubai: Widespread heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds disrupted normal life across several parts of the United Arab Emirates early Thursday, while an Indian expatriate lost his life in a rain-related incident in Ras Al Khaimah.
According to available information, a 20-year-old Indian national died in Ras Al Khaimah while attempting to take shelter during intense rainfall. The deceased had reportedly returned to the UAE recently after his marriage and was working as a delivery worker at a hotel. The exact circumstances surrounding his death are yet to be officially confirmed.
Several areas of Ras Al Khaimah witnessed intense downpours, with reports of hail in some localities. Residents said loud thunder and strong winds jolted people awake in the early hours, while flying debris and heavy rain caused water to enter houses through doors and windows, leading to water accumulation inside homes.
Police authorities issued mobile alerts warning residents about adverse weather conditions and advised them to stay away from valleys, ponds, and low-lying areas. After the storm, damage to vehicles was reported in multiple locations, with fallen tree branches scattered across roads and footpaths, and some parking areas partially blocked by debris.
In Dubai, office-goers reported difficulties in commuting as waterlogging affected several roads. In some commercial areas, shops were temporarily shut after rainwater seeped inside. The impact of the downpour remained visible for hours, particularly in low-lying business districts.
Reports from Umm Al Quwain said steady rain began around dawn and continued for several hours before easing. Parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi experienced overcast skies and light drizzle.
The National Centre of Meteorology stated that a low-pressure system over the Middle East is responsible for the unstable weather, which is expected to persist until Friday. Rainfall of varying intensity, along with thunder, lightning and possible hail in isolated areas, has been forecast.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has urged private sector companies to ensure workplace safety on Friday, December 19, especially for employees engaged in outdoor activities. Employers have been asked to assess risks carefully and implement necessary precautionary measures, with remote work encouraged in severely affected areas.
Dubai Police and other law enforcement agencies across the Emirates have issued safety advisories, urging residents, motorists and delivery riders to avoid beaches, refrain from sailing, stay away from flood-prone areas, drive cautiously and strictly follow official instructions. Emergency contact numbers have also been reiterated during this period of hazardous weather.