Residents should avoid using mobile phones during thunderstorms, according to an alert issued by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) on Sunday.
The alert was sent out after the National Centre for Meteorology (NCMS) said that the UAE can expect more rain and thunderstorms until Wednesday, 12 Nov.
“You may use mobile or landline phones indoors if you wish, as it is safe. But be aware that mobile phones should not be used outdoors,” said the NCEMA in a series of tweets.
تجنب استخدام الهاتف الخلوي في المناطق المفتوحة لكي لا تعرض
نفسك لصواعق الرعدية لا قدر الله.Avoid using mobile phones except in utmost urgent cases especially during thunder storms.#رسائل_تحذيرية#الطوارئ_والازمات #أمطار_الخير #awareness_message #ncema
— NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) November 9, 2019
Late Saturday Night, the UAE experienced extreme weather conditions that continued on to Sunday. Thunderstorms hit areas of Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Sharjah.
Some areas experienced flooding due to the heavy rain that came pouring down roofs on Sunday. In Dubai, a twitter video showed water coming down the roof of Dubai mall and flooding the floors.
When it rains in #Dubai it pours…. pic.twitter.com/o2tFmnIqrJ
— Tam Khan (@Tam_Khan) November 10, 2019
Residents should remain on high alert and drive with precaution over the next few days, according to the NCMS.
Other things to avoid during a thunderstorm include standing under trees or electricity posts, walking next to flowing water, and staying away from anything electricity powered.
What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.