The United Arab Emirates recorded its hottest day of the year on Saturday with temperatures soaring to 50.8°C in Owtaid town, according to the National Centre of Meteorology. The weather agency warned that the sweltering heat and high humidity are set to continue throughout the week.
Southern Mezaira city also experienced extreme heat, recording temperatures of 49.8°C, while at least three other cities in the south and central regions saw temperatures peaking at 49.3°C.
Humidity levels reached uncomfortable highs, hitting 90% in some parts of the country. The weather bureau noted that fog is likely to form over coastal and internal areas until Wednesday, making conditions even more oppressive.
Last month, the UAE saw temperatures exceeding 50.1°C, consistent with the extreme weather conditions observed globally. The warmest day ever recorded on Earth occurred in July, with a global average temperature of 17.01°C, breaking the 2016 record of 16.92°C.
In July, the UAE also experienced humidity levels of 100%, prompting authorities to issue warnings for residents to stay hydrated, especially those engaging in outdoor activities.
Coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have seen increasingly sticky weather this summer, due in part to a large body of humid air over the sea that moves inland. These conditions are expected to continue through September, particularly in the early morning and late evening hours.
Scientists attribute the recent heatwaves in Europe and elevated humidity levels in the Middle East to ongoing global warming.