Orange alert was issued on Thursday due to heavy rains and thunderstorms in the UAE

Severe thunderstorms and rain pounded the UAE on Thursday and hence an  orange alert was issued. Many residents were spared from leaving their homes for work, while others had to wake up early due to heavy rain and wind in their neighborhoods. 

The UAE has been getting ready for this wave of unpredictable weather for the last few days. It is expected to peak today, May 2, and last until tomorrow, May 3. All sectors have received safety advisories. Companies are advised to allow employees to work from home, and schools are using remote learning. Beaches and parks are closed. Airlines and airports are also preparing for the effects.

Since midnight, the nation has been battered by intense rains; as early as 2.35 am, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) in Dubai reported showers and lightning. The public is advised to take measures even though it is anticipated that these rains would not be as bad as the historic deluge that slammed the nation earlier this month.