Intense thunderstorms are expected across parts of the Gulf on Monday and Tuesday, bringing heavy rainfall and a high risk of flooding. A low-pressure system over the Arabian Peninsula will strengthen on Monday, combined with a flow of moist tropical air, leading to enhanced shower activity.
Thunderstorm activity will increase throughout Monday, with a severe storm line forming east of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and moving into southern parts of the United Arab Emirates. Heavy rain, up to 40mm within three hours, and hail are anticipated. Strong winds may also cause dust storms, affecting visibility.
Thunderstorms will continue across the Gulf overnight and spread further into the UAE, dominating the forecast for Tuesday.
Europe experiences record-breaking temperatures; cooler conditions and frost are forecasted this week.By Tuesday evening, northern areas of the UAE could see around 40mm of rain, with up to 100mm possible in the northernmost regions. Dubai, which averages 7mm of rain in April, could receive up to 100mm, with even higher amounts possible.
In Europe, exceptionally mild conditions have been recorded recently, with Spain and France experiencing unseasonably high temperatures.
Northern Spain saw highs in the 30s Celsius, with Miranda de Ebro reaching 33.5°C on Saturday. France set over 150 temperature records on the same day, with a peak of 32.4°C at Sabres. However, cooler conditions are expected this week, with a chance of overnight frost.
March 2024 has been confirmed as the warmest March on record globally, marking the 10th consecutive month with record-breaking average global temperatures.
While El Niño’s influence is contributing to these records, climate scientists are concerned about future temperature trends, even as El Niño’s impact diminishes.