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Forecasters have warned of blowing dust in some areas. Picture for illustrative purposes only. Image Credit: Arshad Ali/Gulf News

Dubai: Varying volumes of rainfall are expected across the UAE, ranging from light to heavy at times, especially along the coast and in the northern areas of the country, the national weather bureau said on Wednesday.

A major storm front was expected to move into the country overnight from the northwest, bringing with it strong winds, increased cloud, rain and blowing sand.

Dr Ahmad Habib, a forecaster at the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology, told Gulf News that the chance of precipitation for rain throughout the UAE on Thursday is 70-75 per cent.

The likelihood of rainfall increases for those living and working along the UAE shoreline in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah and in mountainous areas in Fujairah, he said.

“There will be some rain with clouds, the weather will be unstable with cloud increasing,” Dr Habib said.

The temperatures on Thursday will top out at 35 degrees Celsius.

NCMS has also warned residents of moderate to fresh winds that may be packed with dust, especially over exposed areas, that could reduce horizontal visibility over some areas.

The Arabian Gulf will be rough while the Oman Sea will be moderate to rough at times.

Temperatures may increase slightly to 29 to 31 degrees Celsius in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

On Friday, residents are advised not to put away their umbrellas just yet as scattered to heavy rain is expected in Abu Dhabi, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah. The islands of Abu Musa and Kubra may expect light showers as well.

Rainfall is forecast until Friday when chance of rain will diminish as the day wears on.

Residents may enjoy their weekend on Friday as it will be relatively cold by evening as temperatures are expected to drop by between 2C and 5C due to a change in wind direction affecting the country.