Windy weather across the UAE to blow itself out by weekend

DUBAI // Blustery weather conditions across the emirates are expected to calm by the weekend.

The wind will remain strong today and conditions at seas will continue to be rough, said Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist with the National Centre for Meteorology and Seismology.

However, the wind will begin to die down by this evening and the seas will start to calm, Mr Habib said.

In contrast to last weekend, seas will be "moderate in general" this weekend, he added. The temperatures will exhibit "no big change" but might rise a degree or two in some areas starting from tomorrow, Mr Habib said.

Those hoping to enjoy the beach in Dubai can rest assured they have not been closed, despite media reports to the contrary.

"We would only close the beaches if there was a crisis or some type of environmental disaster," said Ahmad Abdul Karim, director of the Public Parks department which runs Jumeirah Open beach, Mamzar Beach, Jumeirah Beach Park and Mamzar Park.

Last weekend, winds of 65kph whipped up huge waves that battered the Dubai coastline. A woman was swept to her death while taking photos of waves lashing the Palm Jumeirah.

She was believed to have climbed over a barrier and stood on the water breakers in front of the Rixos Hotel on Friday.

"We have rescue personnel raising flags at the beaches every morning that inform people about the water conditions," said Mr Karim. "A red flag means it's dangerous and people shouldn't venture to sea. Lifeguards, rescue, and security personnel are patrolling the beaches all day making sure that people are abiding by the rules and safety procedures."

Early morning drivers, on the other hand, have been warned to expect fog this weekend.

"When the winds decline or become light - moderate to light - the relative humidity will increase over land areas in the night and early mornings," Mr Habib said. "So there will be a chance of some fog."

Mist and fog are especially likely over interior areas tomorrow and Saturday morning, he said. "There is a warning for visibility in the early morning," he added.