Sandstorm engulfs UAE, reduces visibility

A major sandstorm intensified early Saturday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and reduced the visibility in parts of the gulf country to less than 1,200 meters.The UAE national meteorology institute had predicted the advent of the sandstorm with a rise in temperature earlier this week but underestimated its tenaciousness. The institute expects the sandstorm to last until Sunday.On Saturday, temperature climbed above 35 degrees Celsius across the country and fine sand covered roads, houses and parked cars.While Dubai's visibility was reduced around 2,000 meters, the UAE capital Abu Dhabi was stricken more seriously as its visibility is less than 1,200 meters.The UAE police have issued an alert to motorists, advising them to lower the speed. Most beaches have been closed and boat owners and tourists have been warned against water sports until further notice. Infants, elders and people with breathing problems have been told to refrain from going outdoors.No major accidents have been reported during the sandstorm in the country.