The United Arab Emirates is witnessing a severe heatwave, with temperatures approaching 50°C. On Thursday, May 22, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) measured a high temperature of 49.3°C in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafrah region in Bada Dafas at local time 2:00 PM. The severe heat comes after last year’s record high of 50.8°C, as measured in July in Al Shawamekh and Sweihan .
The NCM has posted advisories for residents to exercise caution against the blistering weather. With high humidity aggravating the heat, the risk of heat-related sicknesses like heatstroke and dehydration is much higher. The advice is to stay indoors when it’s hottest outside, wear light clothing, and drink plenty of water.
Looking ahead, the outlook is that the scorching temperatures will continue through the weekend, with highs to still be above 43°C. Residents are urged to check official weather reports and follow safety precautions to reduce health threats during this time of extreme heat.