Al Ain: With hot south-eastern winds sending the mercury level even higher, residents looking to enjoy the summer holidays have been forced to stay indoors at midday.
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The temperature has risen to 46 degrees Celsius in Al Ain and surrounding areas with people also having to contend with the high humidity in coastal areas.
Weather forecasters said the ground level temperature is three to four degrees Celsius higher than the official (atmospheric) temperatures. No change is expected in weather conditions over the next couple of days. Chances of occasional cloud cover, however, exist in some eastern mountainous areas during the afternoon.
"It's dangerous to stay outdoors even under the shade since hot winds reduce body moisture," a physician warned.
Prolonged stay in an air-conditioned environment also reduces water intake and people can be quickly dehydrated in hot and humid conditions. He advised people to drink plenty of water and other liquids.
"The conditions are harsh and people must take necessary precautions before stepping out from homes and offices between noon and 5pm," he added.
The hot spell has also lowered the air quality and this could trigger breathing problems in elderly people and asthma patients.
July is one of the harshest months in the country after June and August.
According to the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS), the weather will remain hot and hazy all over the country in general.
Winds are expected to be slight to moderately rough with chances of dust and sand being kicked up in the interior and open areas. The sea is expected to be moderately rough.
On Monday, the maximum high temperature in Al Ain touched 46 degrees Celsius, followed by 44 degrees Celsius in Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah, 43 Celsius in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. The NCMS warned it could rise to 47 Celsius in interior areas.
Temperature
Al Ain 46C
Abu Dhabi 44C
Umm Al Quwain 44C
Ras Al Khaimah 44C
Dubai 43C
Sharjah 43C
Ajman 43C
