The heat is on as easterly winds blow in from desert
Temperatures soar above average as easterly winds blow in from desert
Al Ain/Dubai: Temperatures soared above 40C in many parts of the UAE on Tuesday, heralding the arrival of summer.
The mercury shot up several degrees above the average for this time of year, although forecasters predicted Wednesday would see temperatures dip back to nearer their seasonal norm.
Doctors warned residents to take care in the hot conditions and to ensure they drink enough and take rest.
In Dubai, the maximum temperature on Tuesday was nearly 41C - well above the May average of 37.5C. The minimum temperature was 28C, which compares to May's average minimum of 24.5C.
Despite the hot conditions, in Dubai the 10-point comfort index - a measure of how pleasant conditions are outside, based on both humidity and temperature - only reached a figure of two, which represents "comfortable" conditions.
Wednesday's maximum and minimum temperatures in Dubai are expected to be 38C and 27C, both closer to the seasonal average.
The duty forecaster at Dubai International Airport said hot air was being brought in from the desert by easterly winds.
In many other parts of the country, temperatures climbed even higher, with Al Ain recording a maximum of 44C and Abu Dhabi only slightly behind at 43C.
Dr Riaz Ahmad Minhas, a doctor at Emirates Clinic and Medical Centre in Al Ain, said the elderly, children and pets were particularly vulnerable at this time of year.
ON GUARD
Protection from the blazing sun
- Have plenty to drink, do not wait until you are thirsty.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses.
- Use plenty of high-factor sun cream, especially if you are light skinned.
- Do not work in the open during the hottest part of the day.
- Take frequent breaks in the shade.
- If you stop sweating go for a check-up, as sweating is the body's mechanism for keeping cool.
- If you suspect sunstroke, don't ignore it.
- TEMPERATURE
