Dust reduces visibility across UAE

Forecasters at the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology in Abu Dhabi say visibility has been reduced to less than 500 metres due to fresh southeasterly winds.

Abu Dhabi residents awoke to a sandstorm with foggy conditions on Thursday morning. Delores Johnson / The National
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DUBAI // Hazy and hot conditions will persist over the weekend, and the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology in Abu Dhabi advises people who suffer from breathing difficulties to take precautions.

Motorists were warned of poor visibilityand winds were expected to kick up dust and sand across much of the country.

“The formation of sand on the roads can cause accidents,” the Ministry of Interior said on Thursday. “Therefore, drivers should focus on the road and comply with traffic regulations in addition to taking the necessary precautions in such dusty conditions.”

Drivers were also instructed to exercise caution when overtaking heavy vehicles because there was a risk of strong winds might topple them.

Beachgoers and fishermen were advised to remain alert as rip tides and waves of up to six metres were forecast for the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea.

Temperatures during the day were expected to hit highs of about 47°C.

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