Major General Jassem Muhammad Al Marzouqui, Civil Defense General Commander-in-chief warned against the sudden risks arising from exceptionally unstable weather conditions. He also urged citizens and residents to exercise caution due to potential landslides and flash flooding caused by torrential rain and hailstorm that lashed the UAE yesterday.
He reiterated the calls issued by the Civil Defense on the need to comply with the safety requirements and to wary of the potential risks of heavy rain that can result in flooding and landslides.
Additionally, Major General Al Marzouqui advised citizens and residents who enjoy wilderness trips to monitor weather changes before departing on their trips or camping. He also called upon them to avoid areas where rainwater is pooling up, including valleys, natural water canals and areas submerged in water. “People must also refrain from swimming in floodwater, and to avoid low lying lands and bottomlands of valleys or risk crossing water immersed valleys,” he said. Furthermore, Major General Al Marzouqui called upon parents to keep an eye on their children and keep them away from valleys, ponds, low lying lands and bottomlands. He also advised citizens and residents to refrain using radio devices and cell phones in uncovered areas during lighting and thunderstorms.
Major General Al Marzouqui urged the public to listen to instructions broadcasted on social networking sites, such as Instagram and Twitter, as well as the concerned websites, including the Ministry of Interior’s various accounts, which usually broadcast instant awareness messages. “The public must also follow weather bulletins issued by official sources, such as the National Meteorological Center, in order to avoid potential risks and to enhance their safety,” he concluded.