Dubai Health Authority Issues Asthma Advisory Amid Unstable Weather Conditions
The DHA warns asthmatics to adhere to their medication regimen in light of increased dust and changing weather patterns.
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has issued a health advisory amid ongoing unstable weather conditions affecting the region.
This advisory, targeted primarily at individuals with asthma, urges patients to continue taking their prescribed medications even if they do not currently exhibit symptoms.
The announcement was made via a social media post on X, where the DHA emphasized the importance of preparedness during this period of weather change linked to strong winds carrying dust, which may exacerbate respiratory issues.
The DHA stated, "During the weather changes and the presence of winds carrying dust, we advise asthmatics to comply with their medication even if they don’t have symptoms of asthma." Active vigilance is particularly crucial for asthmatic individuals as dust storms can trigger attacks and worsen respiratory conditions.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast that weather conditions will remain unstable, with rain predicted until February 18, 2025, alongside increased wind activity across various regions of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The NCM reported on February 17 that winds could stir up dust, reducing visibility in affected areas.
In response to this health advisory, the DHA also recommended that individuals with asthma carry their inhalers at all times and seek immediate medical help if they experience severe attacks.
Recent weather patterns have included light rains in areas such as Owtaid and the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, contributing to a shift from partly cloudy to more overcast conditions.
As of February 17, temperatures across Dubai were observed between 23°C and 27°C, with specific cooler temperatures recorded at Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah, where the mercury dropped to 11.4°C.
According to the NCM's weather forecast for February 18, further chances of light rain are expected primarily over coastal, northern, and western regions.
Meteorological conditions indicate that nighttime humidity is likely to increase, with potential mist or fog formation on February 19.
As for wind conditions, the NCM has projected light to moderate winds coming from the Northeasterly to Northwesterly direction, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h at sea.
Coastal conditions are anticipated to range from moderate to rough in the Arabian Gulf and slight to moderate in the Oman Sea.
As the week progresses, continued updates from both the DHA and NCM are advised, particularly for those affected by respiratory conditions.