Tornado spotted in Ras Al Khaimah as rain falls across the UAE
Unstable weather sparks dramatic skies, heavy rain, tornado and public safety alerts
Harsh weather continues to affect parts of the UAE, with a tornado-like funnel cloud spotted over northern Ras Al Khaimah today as rain swept across several emirates.
Videos shared on social media show funnel clouds forming offshore and over open areas in Ras Al Khaimah, following periods of heavy rainfall. The dramatic weather comes as conditions remain unsettled, with more rain expected in the coming hours.
الإمارات :عاجل لان ظهور أعاصير قمعية على شمال رأس الخيمة #منخفض_البشاير #أخبار_الإمارات #مركز_العاصفة
18/12/2025 pic.twitter.com/03lp4E6KpG— مركز العاصفة (@Storm_centre) December 18, 2025
According to forecasters, winds are expected to shift to an easterly direction and strengthen across northern and eastern regions later this afternoon. This change is being driven by a low-pressure system and increased convective activity over the Arabian Gulf, creating the conditions for intense cloud formation and sudden downpours.
This is not the first time a tornado-like weather event has been spotted in Ras Al Khaimah. A similar phenomenon was recorded in the emirate on August 30, 2021, during another period of unstable weather.
Elsewhere in the UAE, residents in Dubai received a public safety alert on their phones this morning around 8.30am, warning of unstable weather conditions. Rainfall began in parts of the city at around 1pm today, bringing cooler temperatures and reduced visibility in some areas.
More rain is forecast later today, with further showers expected from around 8pm tonight through to 10am tomorrow.
Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious during the wet weather, avoid flooded roads, and not to stop or take photos while driving. Motorists are advised to slow down and keep a safe distance as conditions can change quickly during periods of heavy rain.
As the unsettled weather continues, residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and weather alerts.
Image: The Washington Post
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