This month, the United Arab Emirates is witnessing a notable uptick in temperatures, with a projected increase of three to five degrees compared to March.
As the nation transitions from the temperate conditions of spring to the sweltering heat of summer, residents are urged to brace themselves for the impending warmer climate. This seasonal shift is characterized by rapid fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, a hallmark of the early stages of spring. Meteorological experts caution citizens to anticipate abrupt changes in weather patterns and to make appropriate preparations.
Dr. Ahmed Habib, a climate specialist from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), elucidated the underlying causes of this climatic shift. He explained that during this period, the influence of the Siberian high-pressure system diminishes, giving way to the passage of extensions of low-pressure systems at both upper and surface levels, traversing from west to east across the region. These conditions may manifest as extensions like troughs from the east, which, if intensified, could lead to increased cloud cover in certain areas, potentially augmenting the likelihood of rainfall.
The approaching summer solstice marks a pivotal moment in the celestial calendar, heralding the onset of astronomical summer and the longest day of the year, typically occurring around June 21st. Habib noted that the official commencement of summer is anticipated to occur around June 22nd or 23rd, ushering in a gradual escalation in temperatures over the ensuing days and weeks.
During this transitional period, the sun's trajectory will steadily ascend throughout the afternoon in the UAE and the broader Northern Hemisphere, culminating in its zenith during the summer solstice. This celestial event occurs when either of Earth's poles is inclined most directly toward the sun, a consequence of Earth's axial tilt, and transpires twice annually.
As the sun progresses on its northward trajectory towards the Cancer orbit, daylight hours will incrementally lengthen across the northern hemisphere. Concurrently, air temperatures will gradually rise across most regions of the UAE, with mean temperatures projected to surge by three to five degrees in comparison to March. Despite the anticipated rise in temperatures, humidity levels are expected to marginally decrease during April, particularly in the latter half of the month.
While the initial half of April may witness the formation of fog and mist in scattered areas of the country, this occurrence is anticipated to diminish in frequency during the latter part of the month. Additionally, humidity is forecast to persist in certain inland and coastal regions, notably in the northern areas, accompanied by partly cloudy to fair weather conditions. To capitalize on favorable cloud formations, cloud seeding operations remain active round-the-clock, underscoring the continuous vigilance and preparedness of meteorological authorities in mitigating potential weather-related challenges.
