By early afternoon the tide was high, covering the beaches completely and the waves were noticeably higher than at midday.At 3.30pm it seemed a switch had been turned and spectators and residents were starting to feel the strength of the wind being driven by Cyclone Gonu. It quickly developed to the strength that would blow off your hat or head scarf.
Many businesses and shops closed this afternoon to enable workers to return home and batten down the hatches.
Colleges and schools were making noises about closing for Thursday.
Emails have been circulating around the UAE networks containing Emergency Do Lists.
Geoff Pound
Image: Evidence of railings torn off, water gushing onto the back lawn and waves increasing in height and strength in the background.
