Authorities in the United Arab Emirates issued a red alert across the gulf nation advising citizens to remain vigilant as the weather condition continues to get worse Tuesday, forcing the government to shut down schools and send its employees to work remotely.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms were witnessed across the UAE with powerful lightening on the skies, starting from late Monday till Tuesday, the local media reported.

The National Centre of Meteorology was quoted by Khaleej Times as saying: “Unstable weather conditions will continue to impact the UAE from Monday through Wednesday due to an extension of a low surface pressure and two waves of unstable weather to move across the country on Tuesday.”

Amid the lighting and heavy rainfall, some areas reported power cuts, according to The National news report.

The government also announced the remote learning Wednesday for Dubai’s private schools due to storms.

“The Government of Dubai has extended remote working for employees of all its entities until Wednesday, April 17, due to weather conditions. Private schools in Dubai have also been directed to continue remote learning tomorrow,” the statement on X noted Tuesday. 

“Private sector entities are urged to adopt remote working tomorrow and take all measures necessary to ensure everyone’s safety,” the Dubai Media Office said. 

Authorities have closed the roads across the country as a precaution and started an emergency response to the deteriorating weather.

Further rainfall and lighting are expected as the clouds form over coastal areas especially the northern and eastern parts of the Middle Eastern country.

The bad weather also forced Dubai International Airport to shut down operations for 25 minutes on Tuesday.

A statement posted on X, former Twitter, stated that “there is major flooding on roads leading to the airport and forecasts indicate that the unsettled weather will continue until tomorrow morning”.

The airport advised passengers to check their flight status, allow significant extra travel time, and use the Dubai Metro for smoother transit.

“In light of prevailing weather conditions and keeping in mind the safety of students and staff, Dubai private schools, nurseries, and universities must continue to offer distance learning on Wednesday, April 17,” added Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority on X.

The heavy rains come days after Oman was swept by flash floods, killing nearly a dozen children.