UAE weather: Ramadan could bring long-awaited rain, forecasters say

Winter was one of the driest on record

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  Drivers face unseasonal weather in Dubai.

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  A resident caught up in stormy weather in Al Barsha, Dubai. All pictures by Pawan Singh/Dubai

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  A pedestrian had need of an umbrella in rain-soaked Dubai

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  Commuters coped with hazardous conditions caused by heavy rainfall on King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street in Dubai

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  Waterlogged roads made for tough driving conditions in Dubai

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  Traders watch the rain lash down outside their shops in Al Barsha

The UAE could at last see some long-awaited rain during Ramadan, according to forecasters.

The winter was one of the driest in recent years, with below-average rainfall, prompting President Sheikh Khalifa in December to call for prayers for more rain.

High-pressure weather systems kept the weather calm this winter, holding off the rain, but bringing frequent fog.

However, they are set to be replaced by a low-pressure weather system in the second half of the month, according to the Ramadan forecast by the National Centre of Meteorology.

Even if the rain does finally arrive, it is expected to be less than in an average year, forecasters said.

“During this period, the Siberian high pressure gradually weakens and declines, especially in the second half of it, and the region is affected by the extension of a transiting low-pressure system, where a low pressure extends from the west or east when accompanied by an upper-air low pressure over some areas with a chance of rain,” said the forecast.

Heavy rain falls in Dubai at Ibn Batuta Mall. Leslie Pableo / The National

Average rainfall in the UAE is less than 100mm a year. But there are occasional downpours.

The highest rainfall recorded in one day during the period in previous years was 153.6mm in Razeen on April 17, 2003, the NCM said.

"Rainfall in this month is expected to be less than the overall average," it said.

Ramadan, which is this year taking place in spring, will be “relatively hot” in the big cities on the coast, and slightly hotter inland.

Temperature highs will range between 33°C and 41°C, but could reach 48°C in some areas inland.

Humidity, which has been high in recent months, will fall slightly over the period, although fog and mist are likely over parts for a "limited time", according to the forecast.

The maximum relative humidity will range from 60 per cent to 75 per cent overnight and in the early mornings. It will be much lower during the day, at between 15 per cent and 28 per cent.

Winds will be gusty at times, blowing dust and sand.

Daylight will gradually increase over the month, lengthening the period of fasting from 14 hours and two minutes at the start to 14 hours and 44 minutes by the end.