Cooling Off: UAE Heatwave Finally Eases

End of the Heatwave: Cooler Days Ahead – But Only Temporarily

Residents of the United Arab Emirates can breathe a sigh of relief as some respite is expected after days of extreme heatwaves. According to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) forecast, a temperature drop of 4-5 degrees is expected in the coming days, especially in coastal and western areas, which could bring real relief to the residents.

The past weekend set a real record: in Sweihan, Al Ain, a temperature of 51.6°C was measured, the highest ever recorded in May in the country. Previously, the record was 50.2°C, recorded in 2009 in the Al Shawamekh district of Abu Dhabi.

What caused this heatwave?

Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at NCM, explained that the extreme heat was a consequence of an internal low-pressure system from the south, which swept hot desert air towards the country's interior regions and later reached coastal areas. This thermal low pressure triggered a severe heatwave, but by the beginning of the week, it was already noticeable that the situation was changing: a high-pressure system from the north took control, bringing a cooldown.

On Monday, a temperature decrease of 3-4 degrees was already observed in several places, but further relief of 4-5 degrees is expected on Tuesday, especially in coastal regions.

A rare but not unprecedented phenomenon

Although temperatures above 50°C are particularly unusual, they are not entirely unknown in the region. As Habib noted, similar extreme values were experienced in 2009, usually linked to specific atmospheric pressure systems, and are exceptions rather than general rules. Such rapid temperature fluctuations are also characteristic of several countries in the Middle East, such as Egypt or Jordan, where sudden heatwaves followed by significant cooldowns are common.

The "Roller Coaster" Isn’t Over Yet

Forecasts project that temperatures will rise again on Thursday, May 29, but will be followed by another cooldown on May 31 and June 1. This period is typically unpredictable: April has already set records, with the daily average maximum temperature at 42.6°C, surpassing the 2017 peak of 42.2°C.

As the country slowly transitions into the last phase of spring, the forecasts suggest the unstable weather will persist for a few more weeks. According to Habib, spring in the Middle East lasts until June 21-22, and during this period, sudden heatwaves, strong winds, or even severe rains are common. Conversely, summer will bring much more stable and predictable weather conditions.

What should residents be aware of?

Although some refreshment is expected in the coming days, it is advisable to remain cautious. Significant temperature fluctuations can strain the body, especially for the elderly or young children. It is recommended to consume plenty of fluids, avoid staying out in the sun, and pay attention to fresh weather reports.

(Source of the article: National Center of Meteorology (NCM) statement) img_alt: Dubai cityscape at sunset.