The region encountered multiple weather disturbances, with the most severe occurring from late afternoon to late last night, according to a weather expert.
Despite widespread internet claims, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed that no cloud-seeding operations were conducted during the heavy rains that affected the UAE on Tuesday. Dr. Ahmed Habib from the NCM clarified that cloud seeding is withheld during extreme weather conditions for safety reasons.
Contrary to popular belief, no pilots were dispatched for seeding operations during this period. Despite being known for its arid climate, the UAE experienced an unprecedented downpour, recording its heaviest rainfall in 75 years. While cloud-seeding missions are typically carried out throughout the year, they are suspended during severe storms or when there's a high risk of lightning due to safety concerns.
With significant parts of the country receiving up to 110mm of rain in a single day, many residents grappled with flooded roads, homes, airports, and malls. The NCM reported that the highest rainfall was observed in Al Ain's Khatm Al Shakla area, with 254mm of rain in less than 24 hours. Habib compared this event to historical data, noting that similar rainfall was last recorded in Sharjah in 1949.
The unusual intensity of the recent rainfall was attributed to convective clouds forming over the UAE, leading to a series of weather events. Warm, moist air masses from the Arabian Sea, combined with low-pressure conditions in the upper atmosphere, intensified humidity levels and triggered unstable weather conditions. Despite the severity of the recent weather, Habib reassured that the worst was over, with the country expected to experience only light showers as the low-pressure system moves eastward.
Moving forward, Habib predicted more stable weather conditions, with chances of fog formation in certain internal parts of the UAE. Overall, while the recent rainfall caused disruption and flooding, it also provided valuable insights into the complex meteorological dynamics of the region.
