A camel herder was killed on Friday evening after being struck by lightning while talking on his phone.
The incident, which took place in Al Qashaba, Al Ain, also killed the man’s herd of six camels.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene, said Col Mohammed Al Ameri, director of Abu Dhabi Police’s emergency and public safety department.
Col Al Ameri said that in the case of a thunderstorm, or if the weather indicated a thunderstorm was approaching, residents had to be cautious.
If caught in a thunderstorm, the officer said, people must stay indoors, in their car, or if they are outdoors, take cover if possible.
Sheltering under trees or remaining in the open must be avoided, he said.
As an extra precaution, Col Al Ameri recommended people install lightning rods on the roofs of buildings and cars.
If caught in a storm, he said utility poles should be avoided. If using a phone, avoid elevated areas and stay away from metallic objects such as barbed wire fencing.
Col Al Ameri also called on farm owners to inform their workers of the safety guidelines, and warn them against using their phones during thunderstorms.
According to the weather bureau, the weather on Saturday will be cloudy, leading into Sunday, coupled with light to moderate winds.
newsdesk@thenational.ae