Thunderstorms predicted for weekend

A man shields his face from a sand storm in Khalifa City A. Visibility was down to 1,000 metres in Abu Dhabi.

Unsettled weather reduced visibility in parts of the UAE today with storms forecast for the weekend. In Abu Dhabi, visibility was down to 1,000 metres and in Dubai sandstorms reduced visibility to 500 metres in some areas this morning. The Met office warned to prepare for more of the same over the weekend. With thunderstorms being predicted out to sea and along the coast, several events, including sailing regattas and the Dubai Desert Classic golf championship, could be affected. Georgio Alessio, duty forecaster at the Met office, which takes measurements at Dubai Airport, said sandstorms could increase in velocity. "Sand storms are currently being recorded at 25 knots. Visibility is down to 800 metres but in open spaces, especially out into the desert, it could be just 500 metres, which is very low. "There is a risk of thunderstorms in the morning that could reach the coast and will continue throughout Saturday. There is also a chance of precipitation." [e-mail]