Residents across the UAE woke up to challenging driving conditions after the National Centre of Meteorology issued a fog alert for February 10, warning of significantly reduced visibility in several parts of the country. The alert comes amid dense fog formation overnight, particularly affecting internal roads and coastal areas, raising concerns for motorists during the early morning commute.
Fog is a recurring winter phenomenon in the UAE, often forming during calm nights when humidity levels rise and temperatures drop. On this occasion, visibility dropped sharply in multiple locations, prompting authorities to issue urgent advisories aimed at preventing accidents and easing traffic disruptions during peak hours.
Dense Fog Impacts Internal and Coastal Areas
According to meteorological assessments, fog developed during the late-night and early-morning hours, spreading across low-lying areas, highways, and routes connecting major emirates. Several motorists reported visibility dropping to just a few hundred metres in some locations, making lane discipline and speed control especially difficult.
Coastal regions and inland corridors were among the most affected, with fog lingering into the early morning. Such conditions are particularly hazardous on high-speed roads where sudden changes in visibility can catch drivers off guard.
Authorities Urge Maximum Caution on the Roads
In response to the conditions, the National Centre of Meteorology urged drivers to exercise maximum caution while travelling. Motorists were advised to reduce speed, maintain safe distances between vehicles, and remain alert for sudden slowdowns or stopped traffic.
Traffic safety officials stressed that fog-related accidents are often caused by tailgating, speeding, and improper use of vehicle lights. Drivers unfamiliar with fog conditions were reminded that normal driving habits may not be sufficient in low-visibility environments.
Traffic Advisories Issued by Dubai and Sharjah Authorities
Both Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority and Sharjah Police issued traffic advisories through official channels, alerting residents to the deteriorating visibility and urging them to plan their journeys carefully. Motorists were warned to anticipate delays, particularly on major highways and arterial roads connecting residential and commercial hubs.
Authorities emphasized the importance of following posted speed limits, which are often reduced automatically during foggy conditions. Variable message signs along key routes also displayed warnings, reminding drivers to slow down and drive cautiously.
Heavy Congestion Reported on Inter-Emirate Routes
The fog alert coincided with peak rush-hour traffic, leading to congestion on several major corridors, especially between Dubai and Sharjah. Commuters travelling between the two emirates experienced slower-than-usual movement, with bottlenecks reported on key highways and feeder roads.
Real-time navigation platforms showed widespread congestion, as reduced visibility caused drivers to slow down significantly. Minor incidents and precautionary driving further contributed to delays, extending travel times for thousands of commuters heading to work and schools.
Fog Safety Tips for Motorists
Driving in fog requires heightened awareness and careful vehicle handling. Authorities shared several safety guidelines to help motorists navigate the conditions safely.
Drivers are advised to stay on the right side of their lane to avoid drifting toward oncoming traffic. Maintaining lane discipline becomes especially important when road markings are difficult to see.
Speed control is critical in foggy conditions. Motorists should monitor their speed closely and avoid sudden acceleration. Fog lights should be switched on to improve visibility without causing glare for other drivers.
Using vehicle signals well in advance helps alert drivers behind you to lane changes or slowing traffic. Clear communication on the road can prevent sudden braking and collisions.
High beam headlights should not be used in fog, as they reflect off the moisture in the air and reduce visibility. Instead, low beam headlights or fog lights provide better illumination of the road ahead.
If stopping becomes necessary, drivers should pull over safely to the side of the road, away from moving traffic. Hazard lights must be switched on to warn approaching vehicles and reduce the risk of rear-end collisions.
Gentle braking and easing off the accelerator are recommended to maintain control of the vehicle. Sudden braking should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Public Transport Encouraged During Peak Hours
With fog-related congestion affecting major roads, authorities encouraged residents to consider using public transport options where possible. The Dubai Metro and other mass transit services provide a reliable alternative during adverse weather conditions, helping commuters avoid road delays and reduce travel-related stress.
Using public transport during foggy mornings can also contribute to overall road safety by reducing the number of vehicles on highways during high-risk conditions.
Importance of Checking Real-Time Traffic Updates
Commuters were advised to check real-time traffic conditions before setting out, using navigation and traffic monitoring platforms. These tools provide up-to-date information on congestion, accidents, and road closures, allowing drivers to choose alternative routes or adjust departure times.
Allowing extra travel time during foggy mornings can help reduce anxiety and discourage risky driving behaviour, such as speeding to make up for delays.
Seasonal Weather Patterns Continue Across the UAE
The fog alert highlights the variable nature of winter weather in the UAE, where clear skies can quickly give way to misty mornings. Meteorologists note that such conditions may persist intermittently throughout the season, especially during periods of high humidity and calm winds.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and traffic advisories, particularly when travelling during early morning or late-night hours.
Staying Safe on the Roads
As fog continues to affect visibility across parts of the UAE, authorities remain focused on ensuring public safety through timely alerts and clear guidance. Motorists play a crucial role by following safety instructions, remaining patient in traffic, and adapting their driving habits to weather conditions.
With cooperation from drivers and continued monitoring by authorities, the risks associated with foggy weather can be significantly reduced, helping ensure safer journeys for everyone on the road.
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