Amid rain, Ministry urges those with respiratory issues to avoid cold exposure

 On Friday, the UAE witnessed the peak impact of the weather depression which started in the country two days ago. The authorities were in a high state of readiness  to deal with the repercussions of the unstable weather conditions to ensure that people and buildings were safe, and to maintain the efficiency of facilities and roads.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) emphasised the importance of adhering to health guidelines, especially for the elderly, respiratory patients, and children, calling to avoid direct exposure to cold and dusty weather and to follow approved health instructions during the weather fluctuations. 

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) explained that wide areas of the country were affected by the unstable weather conditions. There could be varying intensities of rainfall, which may be accompanied by lightning and thunder with hail falling in limited areas. This could be followed by active dust-stirring winds leading to reduced horizontal visibility and a noticeable drop in temperature, especially at the peak of the depression's impact. 

As part of the preparations, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) exhorted drivers to exercise caution, reduce speed, maintain a safe distance, avoid driving in areas affected by water accumulation or poor visibility, emphasising adherence to the instructions of the competent authorities and not taking risks while travelling or heading to places of valleys’ flow, along with the necessity of obtaining information from official sources.

The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (Ncema), also confirmed the continuation of coordination with federal and local authorities, raising the level of readiness and preparedness to deal with any developments, urging community members to obtain information from official sources and adhering to the directives.