As people shed their winter coats for lighter florals, has summer begun yet? While calendar and temperature trends may not align with the astronomical onset, the hot season is, astronomically, yet to begin.
June 21 marks summer solstice in UAE, according to Dubai Astronomy Group. A summer solstice is “the moment when the Sun reaches its highest and northernmost point in the sky”, said Khadijah Al Hariri, Operations Manager at DAG.
The summer solstice is set to start at 06.42 UAE time and will last for three months until the autumnal equinox around September 23.
The UAE will experience its longest days between June 18 and 24, with daylight lasting up to 13 hours and 43 minutes, astronomy expert Ibrahim Al Jarwan said.
The first half of summer, which extends from June 21 to August 10, will be marked by rising temperatures, with averages ranging from 41 to 43 °C during the day and 26–29 °C at night.
Hot air waves during this period will also see raising temperatures by at least 3 °C above normal for a minimum of two consecutive days and up to six days or more in some cases. Daytime temperatures may exceed 50 °C in certain areas, alongside the occasional blowing of hot, dry winds.
During the second half of summer, from August 11 until the autumnal equinox on September 23, high humidity flows in while temperatures remain elevated, Al Jarwan said.
The NCM had previously shared tips on how to beat the heat. These guidelines help residents enjoy the outdoors safely:
Drinking plenty of water and fluids
Avoiding direct exposure to sunlight
Wearing light-coloured and cotton clothing
Using hats and sunglasses
Avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours
Ensuring proper ventilation of enclosed spaces
Source: Khaleej Times
