With strong winds and thunderstorms set to pass through the Gulf, the UAE is preparing itself for 48 hours of rainfall and reduced temperatures (although it’s unlikely to be as strong as the rain that hit last year, which is shown in the picture above).

Sunday saw heavy rain in parts of the UAE, affecting areas including Sharjah’s Khor Fakkan district, parts of Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah’s Qidfa and Madha, causing wadis to overflow, leading to flooding and property damage.

This video shows flooding that’s happened across the UAE this week so far…

According to the UAE National Center of Meteorology and Seismology’s (NCMS) website, Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi are to experience heavy rainfall starting Thursday afternoon, especially in the coastal areas, coupled with a substantial drop in temperatures.

– Videos: Rain Across the UAE 

NCMS have also forecast moderate to strong winds, which they warn may be packed with dust that could reduce visibility.

A weather alert for seagoers has also been issued, warning of rough marine conditions said to continue until Friday.

An Instagram shot of the wet weather in Sharjah on Monday…

For a tropical desert climate, the UAE rarely gets anything but sun. However, precipitation has been on the rise in recent years, with short and irregular rainfall accumulating to an average of 150mm per year.

So for those of us still reeling from the 50-degree Summer, it’s pretty safe to say that the upcoming rainfall will be a much welcome break from the searing heat.

Do make sure to pay more attention on the roads though, as a lot of drivers in Dubai aren’t used to driving in rainy conditions.