In Dubai, residents are grappling with an intense heatwave, where the recorded temperatures in the mid-40s Celsius are feeling significantly hotter due to increased humidity. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has reported that while the thermometer reads 44°C, the actual sensation is closer to a scorching 51°C.

Humidity’s Impact on Perceived Heat

The rise in relative humidity, ranging from 65% to 90% across various regions, is the primary factor behind the discrepancy between the actual and perceived temperatures. The NCM attributes this heightened ‘real feel’ temperature to the combination of high humidity and ambient heat. Dr. Mohamed Al Ebri, director of meteorology at the NCM, elaborates that the discomfort is particularly pronounced during the afternoon and early evening as humidity peaks, though a slight reprieve occurs during the night and early morning.

Explaining the Comfort Index

Dr. Al Ebri emphasizes the role of the Comfort Index, also known as the Heat Index, in assessing the impact of humidity on perceived temperature. This index considers not only the air temperature but also humidity, wind speed, and exposure to sunlight. According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), when humidity levels are high, the evaporation of sweat from the skin is hindered, making the body feel warmer and intensifying discomfort.

Factors Influencing Thermal Comfort

Thermal comfort is a complex interplay of various meteorological conditions. Dr. Al Ebri points out that even on days when the air temperature drops slightly due to northwesterly winds, high humidity can persistently make it feel warmer. This phenomenon is typical of August in the UAE, where high temperatures coincide with increased coastal humidity.

Weather Forecast and Potential Rainfall

Despite the extreme heat, the NCM forecasts a mix of fair and partly cloudy skies, with potential convective cloud development and rainfall in the eastern and southern regions. This unexpected weather pattern offers a glimmer of relief amid the oppressive heat, though temperatures are expected to remain stable in the mid-40s.

Temperature Trends Across the Emirates

Throughout the UAE, temperatures continue to hover in the mid-40s. Coastal areas can expect highs between 39°C and 45°C, while internal regions may experience temperatures climbing to 50°C. Specific areas such as Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah will reach 45°C, with Dubai slightly cooler at 44°C. Fujairah remains the coolest at 36°C, while Al Ain and Liwa face the highest temperatures, peaking at 46°C and 49°C respectively.

Sea Conditions and Wind Patterns

Alongside the intense heat, the UAE will experience light to moderate winds, occasionally freshening to speeds of up to 35 km/h along the coast. The NCM predicts slight sea conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, resulting in gentle waves.

Here is a detailed breakdown of expected minimum and maximum temperatures across the Emirates:

Maximum Temp (°C) Minimum Temp (°C)

Dubai 44°C 31°C

Abu Dhabi 45°C 32°C

Al Ain 46°C 35°C

Sharjah 45°C 32°C

Ajman 43°C 31°C

Fujairah 36°C 32°C

Ras Al Khaimah 45°C 30°C

Umm Al Quwain 42°C 32°C

Liwa 49°C 32°C