Schools go online overnight

>> Heavy rain and hail lash all 7 Emirates

>> Unstable weather to intensify in two waves today

>> Dubai Government employees to work from home

>> Airlines advise passengers to reach airport 4 hours before flight

Many private schools in Dubai will start slightly later today, with some institutions allowing students to take extra breaks after each class.

Headteachers explained that this flexibility is being provided to accommodate students who may require additional time to log in to their online classes.

Schools issued circulars to parents on Monday evening about remote learning after all private schools in Dubai were ordered to conduct remote learning for today.

Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum made this announcement on X after the Emirates School Education Foundation’s announcement came, directing all public schools in the UAE to operate remotely.

Meanwhile, the UAE’S meteorological department is advising residents of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to also brace themselves for two waves of inclement weather conditions.

An expert at the National Centre of Meteorology, Dr Ahmed Habib, told Khaleej Times: “There is not only a likelihood of significant rainfall but also a possibility of hailstorm in places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.”

The veteran weatherman stressed this is the first wave that will continue till today morning. “Starting today afternoon in the western region of the UAE, a new wave will gradually advance towards Abu Dhabi. By afternoon and evening, it will progressively spread to the northern and eastern regions of the UAE, including Al Ain.”

He explained rainfall of various intensities will lash the country affecting visibility. “Motorists must exercise caution as there is a possibility of water logging as well. Flooding is expected in the Wadi area, in the northern and eastern regions near the mountains.”