Dusty conditions to continue for next few days

Abu Dhabi: Strong winds and a heavy suspension of dust lowered visibility across most of the UAE on Saturday. Similar conditions are expected to continue over the next few days.

Motorists have been warned to be careful on highways, while residents have been advised to stay away from the seas that are expected to become very rough by Monday.

 

Current dusty conditions, that started on Friday, have been brought about by a southeasterly to southerly flow of winds, which is not uncommon around this time of the year, an official at the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) told Gulf News.

 

"These wind flows are typical to the second half of February and they lead to an eruption of dust before ending in possible rain," the official added.

 

While there is a possibility of rain due to cloud accumulation, temperatures are expected to fall considerably in the later part of the day today.

"By tomorrow, wind speeds can exceed 60 kilometres per hour, while maximum temperatures along the coastline may decrease to 20 degrees Celsius — down from 34 degrees in some areas on Friday afternoon," he said.

 

In coastal areas, strong winds can cause many heavy objects to be displaced, leading to injuries.

Low visibility is also expected to persist during the week, especially in the country's interior areas.

 

‘Lung allergies'

 

"In Jebel Ali, visibility has fallen to about 300 metres, while in many interior areas and parts of the Western Region, visibility has been recorded at 500 metres," he said. Residents must therefore take precautions against the fine dust particles in the air, doctors said. "Elderly residents with a history of respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma and emphysema should remain indoors, as the dust can cause lung allergies," advised Dr Roshan John, an internal medicine specialist at the capital's Lifeline Hospital.

 

"When leaving the house, they should cover their faces, especially their nose and mouth, with a damp cloth or several layers of thin, closely-woven cloth," he said.

 

The doctor added that over the last few days, he had seen several cases of allergic conjunctivitis, an uncomfortable condition that leads to redness, itching and watering of the eyes.

"It is better to put on protective, wraparound eyewear to repel any dust particles. If people face discomfort, they should also avoid rubbing the eyes and instead, sprinkle water directly into their eyes," Dr John said.

Precautions

• Avoid speeding and drive carefully when visibility is low, or when winds are strong.
• Avoid venturing into the desert.
• Stay away from the rough seas that are expected over the coming days.
• Turn on the air conditioning in the car and keep windows closed while driving.
• Cover your face with a damp cloth if you are prone to respiratory diseases.
• Wear protective glasses to shield your eyes from dust allergies.
• If dust enters the eyes, avoid rubbing them and instead splash water into them.