UAE hits 51.6°C in May – here’s how to stay safe in extreme heat
Heat and dust warnings follow record temperature
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recorded an unprecedented May temperature on Saturday, with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirming a sweltering 51.6°C at Sweihan in Al Ain at 1.45pm.
This reading shattered the country’s previous May record (50.4°C on Friday) and was well above the former benchmark of 50.2°C from 2009. According to the NCM, it is the highest May temperature on record since data collection began in 2003. Authorities have since issued heat warnings nationwide as much of the UAE swelters under the early-summer sun.
Even nighttime temperatures offered little reprieve from the heat. The NCM’s forecasts had shown Saturday lows of about 44°C inland and 40°C along the coast, ensuring very warm nights.
Evening rain
On Saturday evening, convective clouds developed over the eastern regions, resulting in rainfall in Al Ain, as predicted by the NCM. The showers were accompanied by gusty winds and blowing dust between 5pm and 8pm, aligning with the weather alert issued earlier in the day.
Motorists were cautioned to drive carefully on wet and dust-covered roads.
Skies earlier on Saturday remained mostly fair to partly cloudy, with light to moderate winds (10–30 km/h) across the country.
Weather outlook
Conditions are expected to remain hot through the weekend. Sunday (25 May) will be mainly fair with afternoon clouds in the east, though no widespread rain is forecast. Daytime highs are likely to reach the low-40s (°C) in many inland areas. Nights will stay warm, especially along the coast.
Winds are predicted to shift southwesterly to northwesterly at about 10–20 km/h, gusting to roughly 35 km/h on Sunday. These breezes could stir up localised dust by midday.
Seas are expected to remain calm; the NCM forecast slight seas in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea. A similar pattern is expected on Monday, with fair weather and only a modest temperature drop on the western coast.
By Tuesday, stronger northwesterly winds (10–25 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h) may raise blowing dust in parts of the interior. Wednesday’s outlook remains fair and hot as well, though clouds and dust can still be expected with northwesterly gusts to 35 km/h.
Heat safety
Health authorities emphasise precautions amid these extreme temperatures. Residents are urged to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, as lack of fluids can cause fatigue, dizziness or even heatstroke.
The NCM’s advisory reminded people to “stay hydrated and avoid outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours”.
It is also recommended to wear loose, light-coloured clothing and use sunscreen or umbrellas for shade.
Experts further advise avoiding the hottest midday sun and reapplying sunscreen frequently. The Ministry of Health and Prevention notes the most vulnerable groups include the elderly, young children, pregnant women and outdoor workers, who should take extra care.
Officials advise covering one’s face in dusty conditions (for example, with masks) and carrying an inhaler for those with asthma or allergies. People experiencing any heat exhaustion symptoms (such as headache, weakness or rapid pulse) should rest in a cool place immediately.
For signs of heatstroke, MoHAP advises cooling the body with water or damp cloths and seeking emergency medical help.
Health experts also point out that protective sunglasses can shield the eyes from intense sun and dust. Finally, residents are reminded not to leave children, the elderly or pets in vehicles during this heat, and to check on neighbours who may need assistance. Residents should stay alert: unnecessary outdoor activities should be limited and even short stints in direct sunlight should be avoided.
Stay tuned to official updates: residents should monitor NCM forecasts and MoHAP advisories for the latest guidance. Authorities say the situation remains under close observation, and the public should continue following official heat-safety advice.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated and seek shade whenever possible during this unprecedented heatwave.