UAE Issues Strong Wind and Rough Sea Alert Ahead of New Year’s Eve
The United Arab Emirates is bracing for a significant weather shift as the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued strong wind and rough sea alerts. Residents, visitors, and maritime operators are urged to exercise extreme caution over the coming days, with conditions expected to impact outdoor New Year’s Eve plans.
Extreme Wind Speeds Recorded
The NCM forecasts powerful winds to persist through Wednesday, December 31. On December 30, extreme gusts were recorded, significantly exceeding seasonal norms:
Mabreh Mountain: 83.8 km/h
Alfarfar: 78.8 km/h
Dhadna: 74.8 km/h
These speeds far surpass the UAE’s typical strong wind threshold of 60 km/h. In response, the NCM has issued yellow and orange weather alerts for hazardous conditions across coastal and inland areas, active until just after midnight on December 31.
Key Hazards and Public Advisory
The unstable weather brings multiple risks requiring public vigilance:
Rough and Hazardous Seas: The Arabian Gulf is expected to experience high waves, creating dangerous conditions for small boats, fishing vessels, and recreational water activities. The Oman Sea may also be unstable. Mariners are strongly advised to postpone trips.
Reduced Visibility from Dust: Strong winds will stir up sand and dust, significantly reducing horizontal visibility on roads and in open areas, particularly in interior and northern regions. Motorists should drive cautiously, reduce speed, and follow traffic safety protocols.
Notable Temperature Drop: A marked cooldown is forecast, with minimum temperatures in some internal areas potentially dropping to around 10°C on December 30-31. Those celebrating outdoors should dress appropriately for the chill.
Critical Safety Recommendations
Health: Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma should limit outdoor exposure, keep windows closed, and take necessary precautions during dusty periods.
Marine Safety: Boaters and fishermen should avoid the sea until conditions improve. Beachgoers should stay away from hazardous surf and strong currents.
General Caution: The public is advised to avoid unstable structures and secure outdoor objects that could be displaced by high winds.
Also Read: More Than Fireworks: Discover 5 Iconic UAE Experiences to Welcome New Year’s Eve 2026
Stay Informed and Prepared
This period of unsettled weather underscores the importance of staying updated via official NCM channels. By heeding warnings and adjusting plans, residents and visitors can ensure their safety and minimize disruption during the New Year’s Eve period.
