Kuwait experiences intense heatwave with temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius in various locations.
Kuwait is currently grappling with an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record-breaking levels. The current heatwave, which is expected to persist until Saturday, is primarily caused by the extension of the Indian monsoon depression and a dominant heat dome weather system.
According to the Meteorological Department, the Rabiya area in Kuwait recorded the highest temperature in the country on Tuesday, reaching an astonishing 51°C. Other areas like Jahra and Kuwait International Airport also hit temperatures of 50°C. The heatwave conditions may persist for several days, with daytime temperatures ranging between 50 and 52 degrees Celsius.
The Indian monsoon depression brings a very hot air mass over the region, combined with northwesterly winds of light to moderate strength. The heat dome weather system, centred over Kuwait, Iraq, and parts of Saudi Arabia, traps the hot air, preventing heat dissipation and causing temperatures to accumulate near the surface and middle atmosphere layers.
The extreme heat is causing discomfort and poses a risk to health, especially during peak heat hours. The Meteorological Department has advised residents to take necessary precautions, especially from late morning to afternoon when temperatures peak.
Coastal areas face relatively high humidity, increasing the perceived heat stress. However, this humidity is forecasted to decrease starting from Friday. The heatwave may lead to increased energy consumption, health risks such as heatstroke or dehydration, and general disruption to daily activities.
Dharar Al-Ali, Acting Director of the Meteorological Department, made a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), stating that the hot air mass and winds are responsible for the high temperatures in Kuwait. He further added that the extreme heat in Kuwait can be linked to the Indian monsoon depression.
Residents are urged to stay indoors during the peak heat hours, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities. The Meteorological Department will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.
[1] Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), (2023). Heatwave Continues in Kuwait: Meteorological Department Issues Warning. [online] Available at: https://www.kuna.net.kw/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=1263311&language=en [2] Al-Rai, (2023). Heatwave Hits Kuwait: Temperatures Exceed 50°C. [online] Available at: https://www.alraimedia.com/kuwait/news/heatwave-hits-kuwait-temperatures-exceed-50c [3] Arab Times, (2023). Kuwait Experiences Intense Heatwave Amidst Indian Monsoon Depression. [online] Available at: https://www.arabtimesonline.com/kuwait-news/kuwait-experiences-intense-heatwave-amidst-indian-monsoon-depression/
In the context of the ongoing heatwave in Kuwait, the high temperatures are a result of the Indian monsoon depression bringing a hot air mass over the region and a dominant heat dome weather system trapping the heat, as stated by Dharar Al-Ali, Acting Director of the Meteorological Department. To mitigate the health risks associated with the extreme heat, residents are advised to stay indoors during peak heat hours, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
