Record-breaking heatwave in UAE: Temperatures reach scorching 51.8°C amidst summer's highest heatwave intensity
The upcoming Al Mirzam period, spanning from July 29 to August 10, is set to bring the highest temperatures of the year to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This period, known locally as "Waghrat Al Qayz" or the "burning heat" phase, is characterized by intense daytime heat, low cloud activity or humidity, and the presence of strong, dry desert winds known as samum.
The samum winds, blowing from the north to northwest at speeds of 25–40 km/h, carry dust and reduce visibility. These winds contribute to health risks and worsen heat exposure by increasing evaporation and bodily dehydration. Sporadic convective clouds might bring localized rainfall and occasional dust storms, but these are limited and do not significantly reduce the overall extreme heat.
On May 24, 2023, a scorching 51.6°C was recorded in Sweihan, marking the highest temperature ever recorded in the UAE. However, this year, the UAE has already seen temperatures soar even higher, with a record-breaking 51.8°C on August 1.
Residents are advised to avoid going out during peak hours due to extreme heat from morning to sunset. The weather patterns typically occur from mid-July to mid-August, with alternating days of active weather and light or no rainfall.
Experts predict that these weather conditions, including the presence of the samum winds, are normal phenomena happening around this time of the year. Dr Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), has stated that these patterns are expected to continue intermittently.
Recent weather activity in the UAE is linked to a combination of atmospheric systems, including a low-pressure system moving in from the East, moisture-laden air from the Arabian Sea, and the northward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Despite these conditions, some parts of the UAE have experienced light rains, hail, and strong winds during the Al Mirzam period.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the UAE is expected to experience even hotter weather with the arrival of the Al Mirzam period. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, seek shade when possible, and follow safety guidelines during this intense phase of summer heat.
- In the midst of the Al Mirzam period from July 29 to August 10, entertainment events may need to be postponed or moved indoors due to the extreme heat.
- The business sector, particularly outdoor activities like food trucks or open-air markets, should be mindful of the weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure employee safety.
- News outlets may focus on shareable tips for staying safe and healthy during the Al Mirzam period, such as minimizing outdoor activities, staying hydrated, and utilizing public cooling centers.
- Sports events, such as outdoor soccer matches or running races, may experience delays or cancellations during the Al Mirzam period due to the high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.
- Experts in environmental science and climate-change research may discuss the weather patterns observed during the Al Mirzam period, the role of climate change in exacerbating extreme heat events, and future predictions for such conditions in the UAE.
