UAE weather: Dubai hit by hail, thunder and heavy rain

Unseasonal weather swept across the Emirates on Sunday

Dubai was lashed by rain, hail and dust storms on Sunday as unseasonal weather swept through the country.

Downpours were recorded across the emirate as residents picked up their camera phones to capture the UAE's latest bout of wet weather.

Thunder was reported in the desert suburbs of JVC and Mira, among other areas, as skies darkened during Sunday afternoon.

Motorists faced hazardous driving conditions as the deluge and dust storms reduced visibility and made for slippery roads.

The National Centre of Meteorology issued a safety alert, urging residents to take care during the  treacherous weather.

Heavy rainfall and hail was also reported in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

UAE residents have been forced to reach for their umbrellas and take cover throughout the year.

In March, the skies of Dubai were lit up by lightning as torrential rain soaked the streets.

Wadis in the northern emirates flooded as rainfall was recorded in all parts of the UAE.

In January, fierce storms sparked major disruption as roads were sealed off and homes were flooded.

A staggering 150mm of rain fell every hour for two-and-a-half hours.

In an average January, just 10mm of rain usually falls in Dubai over the full month.

Dark clouds gathered over the city on Sunday afternoon followed by sporadic rain and high winds. Chris Whiteoak / The National