DUBAI: A fresh wave of extreme heat is set to grip the Middle East this week, with temperatures forecast to approach 50 degrees Celsius across several countries, prompting weather authorities to issue alerts over dangerous conditions.
The UAE’s National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has warned that the coming days will bring soaring temperatures across the region, particularly affecting the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait, and eastern Saudi Arabia, where prolonged exposure to the heat could pose serious health risks.
According to meteorologists, desert regions in the UAE are expected to experience the highest temperatures, with some areas likely to approach the 50°C mark. Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours and to remain well hydrated.
The latest forecasts indicate that Al Shawamekh in Abu Dhabi has already recorded temperatures exceeding 50°C, highlighting the intensity of the current weather conditions.
Kuwait is also expected to experience extreme heat, with temperatures predicted to reach 48°C in the coming days, while parts of Iraq and eastern Saudi Arabia are likely to face similarly scorching conditions.
Despite the widespread heat, forecasters say some eastern and southern parts of the UAE, including Fujairah, could receive rainfall by Thursday as unstable weather develops over mountainous regions.
The weather authority has also issued warnings for strong winds, reduced visibility, and dust storms, which may affect road travel and outdoor activities across several parts of the region.
Health experts advise people to stay indoors whenever possible, drink plenty of water, wear light-colored clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during midday when temperatures are expected to peak.
The renewed heatwave follows a summer of record-breaking temperatures across several parts of the world, with climate scientists warning that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to global climate change.
Governments across the Gulf have increasingly introduced measures to protect workers and residents during the hottest months, including restrictions on outdoor labor during peak daytime hours and expanded public awareness campaigns on heat-related illnesses.
As the latest heatwave builds across the region, authorities continue to monitor weather conditions closely while urging the public to follow official safety advisories. With temperatures expected to remain exceptionally high over the coming days, residents are being encouraged to take extra precautions to minimize the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
