Dubai: The UAE's meteorological authority issued a weather advisory late Tuesday, predicting an uptick in cloud cover accompanied by possible light to moderate rainfall. The forecast also hints at the likelihood of heavier showers interspersed with lightning and thunder, resulting in a noticeable cooling of temperatures.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) foresees a shift in weather patterns due to an intensifying upper-air trough, set to usher in scattered showers and strong winds commencing this Sunday.

While the rainy conditions are anticipated to ease by Tuesday evening, the Meteorological Department's report cautions against potential hazards associated with the weather changes.

The forecast also indicates the onset of strong winds, initially from the south-east before veering towards the north-east and eventually north-west. These winds, described as moderate to fresh and possibly gusty, may trigger blowing dust and sand storms, significantly reducing visibility on roadways.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution and stay alert to the evolving weather dynamics.

The maritime sector is also expected to be affected, with the Arabian Gulf likely to experience light to moderate waves that could escalate to rough to very rough conditions, particularly during periods of intense cloud cover. Similar rough sea conditions are anticipated in the Oman Sea, especially in areas experiencing convective cloud activity.

Previous reports from Khaleej Times suggested that the country might witness rainfall during the "last 10 days" of March.

Rainfall projections vary, with coastal regions expected to receive lighter precipitation ranging between 10mm to 40mm. Inland areas could experience heavier rainfall, with estimates ranging from 50mm to 80mm.

Abu Dhabi is set to witness varying intensities of rainfall, with coastal zones expecting 10mm to 20mm of total precipitation, while inland areas might receive between 25mm to 50mm of rain.

Dubai and Sharjah are also expected to receive substantial rainfall, with coastal regions anticipating between 15mm to 50mm of accumulated precipitation.