Prime Highlights:

• UAE is witnessing a record heatwave with temperatures exceeding 45°C in most places.
• Preventive measures like a ban on work during the noon hour and increased public alerts have been taken by authorities.

Key Facts:

• Places such as Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have witnessed temperatures exceeding 50°C.
• Extremely high humidity of 85% and more is adding to the heat index and distress.
• We are receiving reports from hospitals of an unexpected spike in heat illness such as heatstroke and dehydration.

Key Background :

United Arab Emirates is hit by a severe heatwave as temperatures during the day are rising and going above 45°C in most locations. Abu Dhabi and Al Ain have been recording record highs of more than 50°C according to local monitoring stations. National Centre of Meteorology issued a warning that the extreme heat will continue for two more days, and it is urging people and workers to take precautions.

The prolonged heat, supplemented by high humidities — up to 85% in some areas — has put individuals into a critical state of heat exhaustion and other disease states. Climatic conditions are extremely hazardous to individuals whose regular activities are permanently outdoors, aged individuals, very young children, and individuals suffering from underlying ailments. Doctors throughout the country all have reported a staggering influx of emergency admissions resulting from heat stress, which includes heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion.

To offset the impact of the record heat, UAE authorities have imposed a midday work ban prohibiting work outside working hours between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM during mid-June and mid-September. This is the second of the nation’s measures to protect the employees from the scorching summer sun. The second action is the installation of thousands of air-conditioned cooling shelters for delivery drivers and outdoor workers with resting facilities with shades and water amenities.

Health clinics too experience more activity because of a rise in heat illnesses. Doctors are advising residents to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of liquid, keep loose clothing, and avoid any outdoor strenuous activities. Residents with heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease should take extra precautions.

This new record heatwave also illustrates the cumulative impact of global climate change on the country. Being a hot and dry desert country in the first place, the UAE is getting more victimized by extreme and repeated weather conditions. Long-term policy intervention is demanded by the experts in tackling emerging weather patterns as well as defending human health and infrastructure.

With the heatwave still persisting, the people there need to be careful and take note of all warnings from the government to be able to safeguard themselves.