Strong winds in UAE: NCM issues orange alert for rough seas

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) in the UAE on Tuesday, December 30, warned residents that there will be a period of strong, fast winds for two days, until New Year's Eve on December 31 (Wednesday).

According to the NCM, as of December 30 evening, winds reached speeds of 83.8km/h on Mabreh Mountain, 78.8km/h at Alfarfar, and 74.8km/h at Dhadna. For scale, light to moderate winds in the UAE usually reach speeds of 30km/h, while strong ones go up to 60km/h.

The department has also issued yellow and orange alerts for rough seas, which will be in place until a little after midnight on December 31.

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Temperatures will drop on Tuesday and Wednesday, leading to chilly New Year's Eve celebrations for residents and visitors. The NCM has predicted a minimum temperature of 10°C in some internal areas of the country on December 30 and 31.

The strong winds will not only cause rough seas, but will also kick up sand and dust, reducing horizontal visibility on land.

Residents have been warned to avoid direct exposure during periods of dusty weather. This includes closing doors and windows when indoors, and following traffic rules on the road.