UAE hit by rain, sandstorms and lightning as extreme weather returns

Sandstorms, heavy rain, lightning and strong winds have struck parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai as extreme winter weather sets in the UAE.

Visibility reduced for motorists as rain lashed down on roads.

Rainfall was also recorded in Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah.

One motorist travelling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road urged fellow drivers to take care.

"There is a sand storm with gusts of wind blowing sand across the road.

"Visibility is down to around 200 metres and it’s extremely dark. There is also lightning.

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"In some stretches there is sand on the road and motorists should be careful," said the commuter.

The gloomy weather also disrupted the season-closing of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where drivers had to contend with rain.

Spectators watching a horse race during the rain at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club in Abu Dhabi. Pawan Singh / The National

The wet climate comes two weeks after a day of rain, extreme winds and lightning prompted police to issue an emergency alert in the capital.

The stormy Sunday on November 11 dumped eight months' worth of rain measuring 49.4 millimetre in just an hour between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, according to forecasters.