Dense Fog Blankets UAE, Disrupting Morning Commute and Prompting Urgent Warnings
Early Tuesday morning, dense fog enveloped various regions of the United Arab Emirates, significantly disrupting the morning commute and leading weather and transport authorities to issue urgent warnings. The sudden drop in visibility across several coastal and internal areas raised serious safety concerns during peak travel hours, as drivers faced hazardous conditions on major roadways.
Visibility Warnings Issued During Critical Morning Hours
The National Centre of Meteorology activated red and yellow alerts on Tuesday, February 10, highlighting that horizontal visibility had sharply decreased and could further deteriorate until 9 a.m. These advisories specifically targeted areas where weather conditions were expected to fluctuate unpredictably in the early hours. Authorities emphasized that visibility might worsen abruptly, heightening the risk of accidents if motorists failed to adjust their speed and maintain safe following distances.
Traffic Advisories and Reduced Speed Limits Implemented
In response to the foggy conditions, the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai urged all drivers to adhere strictly to fog-related safety guidelines. Digital signboards throughout the city displayed real-time reminders as traffic volumes surged during the morning rush. Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, residents received direct mobile phone alerts informing them that speed limits had been temporarily reduced on several key roads due to the thick fog. These measures reinforced the critical need for extra vigilance and cautious driving to prevent collisions and ensure public safety.
Temperatures to Remain Mild Across the Country
Despite the foggy disruptions, weather forecasts indicate that conditions will stay humid overnight and into the morning of Wednesday, February 11. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain comfortable across most parts of the UAE. For instance, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are projected to record highs of 29°C, with overnight lows dipping to around 18°C. Similarly, Sharjah will experience a high of 29°C, while nighttime temperatures there may fall to 15°C. Across the wider nation, temperatures could drop as low as 8°C in Jebel Jais, while the Liwa region of Abu Dhabi might see highs reaching up to 32°C.
Winds and Sea Conditions Forecast
Light to moderate south-westerly winds, shifting to north-easterly, are anticipated to prevail throughout the region. Wind speeds are forecast to range between 10 and 20 kmph, with occasional gusts potentially reaching up to 30 kmph. Sea conditions are expected to be moderate to slight in the Arabian Gulf and slight in the Oman Sea, according to the latest meteorological updates.
Authorities continue to advise residents to remain alert during early morning hours and to follow official updates closely as weather conditions evolve. The combination of fog, reduced visibility, and peak travel times underscores the importance of heeding safety warnings to minimize risks on the roads.
