Watch: Heavy rains, thunderstorms, lightning hit Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi witnessed a dramatic shift in its typically hot and dry summer weather on Friday, August 21, as heavy rains swept across the capital. The downpour was accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds, creating a striking contrast to the usual climate.

Videos shared by Storm Centre vividly depicted the intense weather. One clip showcased lightning illuminating the sky in shades of purple, while thunder echoed and trees swayed under the force of the wind. Another video captured the dramatic purple glow from a balcony, with repeated flashes lighting up the sky. Further footage showed rain falling steadily onto Abu Dhabi's roads, a welcome sight during the summer months.

The severe weather conditions prompted precautionary measures by the Abu Dhabi City Municipality. As a safety measure, all parks, recreational facilities, and affiliated beaches were temporarily closed. Events were also suspended until further notice. The municipality stated that these actions were taken to protect residents and ensure public safety amidst the fluctuating weather and heavy rainfall.

Residents also shared footage of the intense weather, with one video showing rain cascading outside a window, punctuated by visible lightning flashes and audible thunder. Another clip captured heavy rain lashing a road, significantly reducing visibility for drivers, while strong winds swept through the area.