The UAE government shared some important health and safety tips to keep in mind during rainy weather
1 May 2024
| Last updated on 1 May 2024Top tips to stay safe whenever it's raining in the UAE.
The UAE's National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) have advised public and private companies, schools, and other institutions to offer remote working or distance learning from Thursday May 2 until Friday May 3, due to the rainfall and chances of hail expected later this week.
SEE ALSO: UAE Authorities Announce Distance Learning for All Schools on May 2 and 3
While the weather conditions are predicted to be a lot more moderate compared to the record-breaking heavy rains that lashed the country in mid-April, residents and visitors are still urged to remain cautious.
Follow these important tips to stay safe during unstable weather in the UAE.
1. Stay at home if possible
NCEMA reminds all that your safety is your responsibility. Authorities request residents and visitors to stay indoors as much as possible and leaving only for extreme cases of necessity.
2. Avoid listening to and spreading rumours about the situation
Rumours tend to circulate on social media and by word-of-mouth. NCEMA urges all members of the community to avoid listening to or spreading "news" about the weather, road updates, etc. that are being spread online.
Please refer to official sources, such as official government accounts and news platforms, for concrete information.
3. Avoid contact with puddles and floods
Prevent waterborne diseases by avoiding playing, wading into, or swimming in stagnant rain water, as it can be a source of pollution.
"Ensure drains and sewage systems are unblocked to prevent water stagnation," advised the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHaP).
Do not drink rainwater. If you got soaked in the rain, clean yourself with a shower or a bath upon reaching home.
4. Wear protection against mosquitos
Rainy weather tends to see a rise in mosquitos. UAE authorities recommends wearing protection against mosquitos, such as long-sleeved clothing, pants or long skirts, and use mosquito-repellent creams.
Residents are recommended to install window screens, to prevent mosquitos from entering their homes.
5. Regularly clean the house during rainy weather
Regularly clean your home to prevent moisture and mold from growing in your house due to the rainy weather in the UAE. This will also help reduce the build-up of dust and dirt so you can avoid asthma and other breathing-related difficulties.
Ensure that your house's drains and sewage systems are not blocked or clogged.
6. Avoid touching dangling wires and fallen objects
Exercise caution during rainy weather as you might come across fallen objects or dangling electrical wires, as both can be safety risks. Avoid touching these, and be sure to have first aid supplies readily available in your home.
7. Have a balanced diet and only consume safe-to-drink water
MoHaP recommends incorporating a balanced diet of five servings of fruits and vegetables everyday. Ensure the cleanliness of your food and drinks, and avoid drinking tap water.
8. Do some exercises at home
Keep active and healthy while indoors by engaging in some light to moderate exercises.
9. Park your car on high ground
Motorists are advised against parking in basements during rainfall in the UAE, as lower levels are more prone to flooding. Keeping your vehicles parked in flooded areas may lead to water damage on electronic steering systems, engines, and transmissions.
Instead, try to park your car on higher ground.
10. Drive slowly when it's raining
UAE motorists are recommended to drive below speeds of 80km per hour during unstable weather conditions. Keeping a slower speed enables drivers to have better control over vehicles and respond more effectively, especially on wet roads.