An extraordinary winter weather phenomenon captivated residents across the United Arab Emirates on Monday morning as rare hailstorms and rainfall transformed the typically arid landscape. The northern emirate of Ras Al Khaimah became the epicenter of this meteorological event, with social media platforms flooded with videos showing steady hailstones descending upon the region. In one particularly joyful clip, groups of men were seen embracing the unexpected weather, laughing and playfully engaging in hail-throwing exchanges.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had previously forecast light precipitation around January 25th, but the intensity and nature of Monday’s weather surpassed expectations. While winter rainfall occurs periodically in the UAE, hailstorms remain exceptionally uncommon, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas. The mountainous terrain of Ras Al Khaimah, with its higher elevations and lower temperatures, created ideal conditions for this rare convective cloud activity.
Simultaneously, Dubai experienced its own winter transformation with steady rainfall, overcast skies, and brisk winds. Instagram footage from StormCentre.ae captured the precipitation streaming across vehicle windshields as traffic navigated the newly soaked roadways. The morning’s lowest temperature registered at 4.7°C on Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah at 6:30 AM, contributing to the distinctly wintery atmosphere.
Meteorological authorities have advised residents to exercise caution during these unstable weather conditions, emphasizing potential hazards from wet roads and reduced visibility. Dr. Mohamed Al Ebri, Director of Meteorology at NCM, previously explained to Khaleej Times that these temperature fluctuations represent normal winter patterns, with alternating cold spells and moderate warm periods expected throughout the season.
Notably, Dr. Al Ebri contextualized the current cold spell within broader global climate dynamics, specifically referencing the La Niña phenomenon. This climate pattern, characterized by cooler-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, continues to influence weather systems worldwide, including the Arabian Peninsula.
The unexpected hailstorm provided residents with a memorable break from the region’s typically mild winter weather, creating moments of shared wonder and digital documentation across social media platforms.