The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is bracing for a sweltering Friday as temperatures are set to soar, reaching unprecedented highs for the season. According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the country will experience hot and hazy conditions, with temperatures in several regions climbing to the mid-to-high 40s Celsius, accompanied by a significant surge in humidity levels.
Record Heat Across the Emirates
The heatwave is expected to impact various parts of the UAE differently. Coastal regions will experience temperatures ranging from 38°C to 44°C. However, the most intense heat will be felt in the inland areas, where temperatures may rise between 41°C and 47°C. Mountainous areas will offer some respite with slightly cooler conditions, with temperatures expected to range between 31°C and 36°C.
Major cities are not exempt from the heatwave. Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are both forecasted to reach scorching highs of 45°C, while Dubai will see temperatures around 44°C. Ras Al Khaimah will not be far behind with highs of 43°C. In contrast, Fujairah is expected to be the coolest major city with a maximum of 36°C.
Humidity Levels on the Rise
The increase in temperature is not the only concern. The NCM has also forecasted a rise in humidity levels, particularly overnight and into Saturday morning. This will be most noticeable in western coastal areas, where the relative humidity could reach up to 90%. This increase poses a risk of fog or mist development, potentially affecting visibility for early morning commuters.
Winds will remain light to moderate, predominantly coming from the southeasterly to northeasterly direction, with speeds ranging from 10 to 20 km/h. Gusts may occasionally reach up to 30 km/h, providing some relief from the oppressive heat.
Sea Conditions and Recreational Opportunities
Despite the oppressive heat on land, sea conditions are expected to remain favorable for beach-goers. The Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman will experience slight conditions with wave heights between one and three feet, making it an ideal time for water activities. However, caution is advised as the intense sun and high humidity can pose additional risks.
Looking Ahead to the Weekend
The weekend weather in the UAE will largely remain fair, although some variations are expected. On Saturday, northwesterly winds may gain strength, potentially reaching speeds of 40 km/h and causing dust to blow across some areas. Sunday promises a return to fair weather, though partly cloudy skies could appear over eastern regions. Humidity is expected to increase again overnight in coastal areas, continuing the pattern of elevated moisture levels.
Detailed Temperature Forecast
Residents should prepare for a full spectrum of temperatures across the Emirates. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the expected minimum and maximum temperatures for key locations:
Maximum Temperature (°C) Minimum Temperature (°C)
Dubai: 44°C / 30°C
Abu Dhabi: 45°C / 29°C
Al Ain: 45°C / 30°C
Sharjah: 45°C / 29°C
Ajman: 40°C / 29°C
Fujairah: 36°C / 31°C
Ras Al Khaimah: 43°C / 27°C
Umm Al Quwain: 41°C / 29°C
Liwa: 45°C / 27°C
The NCM continues to advise residents to take necessary precautions against the extreme heat and humidity. Staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun are essential measures to ensure safety during this heatwave.
