UAE Faces Record High Temperatures as Authorities Issue Safety Warnings
Intense heat continues to envelop the UAE, with temperatures reaching as high as 51.6°C. Police urge caution regarding child safety in vehicles.
Dubai: The United Arab Emirates is currently experiencing intense heat, with temperatures expected to range between 45°C and 50°C across various regions today, as reported by the National Center of Meteorology (NCM).
The heatwave follows a record-breaking high of 51.6°C in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, marking the highest temperature ever recorded in May since data collection began in 2003. This surpasses the previous record of 50.2°C, set in 2009.
The NCM forecasts that while the daytime highs will remain oppressive, generally fair weather with intermittently cloudy skies can be expected, particularly in the eastern regions.
Light to moderate winds may provide some brief relief, but humidity levels are anticipated to be high, reaching up to 90%.
This combination of heat and humidity contributes to an oppressive atmosphere for residents across the country.
As the weather conditions intensify, Abu Dhabi Police have issued urgent advisories to families and motorists, emphasizing the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles.
Police underscored that leaving a child alone in a locked car can lead to rapid oxygen depletion and severe health consequences, including heatstroke, which can be fatal.
Authorities highlighted that exposure to such conditions is classified as a criminal offense, and legal proceedings will follow against any individual found negligent.
The warning is particularly pertinent following the extreme heat and the potential for temperatures inside vehicles to exceed 60°C when parked in direct sunlight, compounded by the risk of children tampering with vehicle controls.
Emphasizing the health risks posed by extreme heat, health professionals have pointed out that conditions such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop rapidly under these circumstances.
Symptoms include excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, necessitating immediate medical attention if not promptly addressed.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak temperature hours.
The public is also encouraged to regularly monitor updates from the NCM to stay informed about evolving weather conditions and their implications.