The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) stated that the UAE may see rainfall above average levels, as a powerful El Niño climate pattern affects weather conditions around the world, though conditions within the country are currently stable.
El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon that forms in the Pacific Ocean and is capable of affecting weather patterns well outside that region. As per the NCM, its direct impacts are focused on the Pacific, whereas its influence on the UAE is indirect.
This phenomenon can cause weather patterns worldwide to differ sharply, with certain regions facing extended dry spells while others get more rain than usual.
The NCM said the UAE is one of the regions where El Niño might lead to greater rainfall.
Intense rain may occur
Even though this year’s El Niño is strong, the weather pattern should not be taken as a certainty of rain throughout the UAE.
The NCM noted that El Niño can act as a signal of higher rainfall in the country, and that spells of heavy rain may happen once the required atmospheric conditions form over the UAE.
At present, though, weather conditions continue to be stable.
The meteorological centre stated that it keeps tracking regional and global weather patterns to spot any changes that might impact the country.
Should a major weather system be anticipated to affect the UAE, the authorities will release forecasts and warnings via official channels with adequate advance notice.
The NCM further emphasised how important it is to depend on verified information, especially when weather conditions are shifting.
It called on the public and media outlets to verify weather information before sharing it, and to refrain from spreading or republishing rumours.
Depend on official updates
Forecasts and warnings from the NCM continue to be the most dependable source of information for residents and visitors, especially when severe weather may occur.
The centre said it will keep watching atmospheric conditions and issue updates as needed.
Although El Niño may raise the chances of above-average rainfall in the UAE, the actual rainfall will hinge on the atmospheric conditions that form locally.
Residents should thus not presume that the climate phenomenon will inevitably bring heavy rain, and should instead consult official forecasts for details specific to their location.
The NCM’s assessment comes as global weather patterns remain under the influence of the strong El Niño event, underlining how shifts in the Pacific can indirectly affect weather conditions in far-off regions, including the UAE.