Kuwait records world’s highest temperature of 49°C

Dubai: Kuwait recorded the world’s highest temperature on Friday, with the Mataraba weather station registering a scorching 49°C.

Meteorologist Fahad Al Otaibi stressed that afforestation is the fastest and most effective way to lower temperatures in Kuwait’s desert climate, where blocking sunlight or dust is not feasible.

He said that planting trees along residential streets and sidewalks could reduce temperatures by 3 to 8 degrees Celsius and significantly limit dust levels. Most dust affecting Kuwait originates from the north and southwest, he noted.

"The growing vegetation cover is critical to addressing the increasingly harsh summer conditions," Al Otaibi said.

He emphasized that green spaces not only mitigate extreme heat but also bring economic benefits, such as reducing the costs associated with clearing sand from sandstorms. He called for prioritizing afforestation in the planning of new residential areas to help combat desertification and sand encroachment.

Al Otaibi cited China's successful experience in turning cities into green zones as a model for Kuwait, saying that with cooperation among government agencies, similar environmental and economic gains could be achieved.