Dubai: Residents across the UAE are experiencing a cold wave, with temperatures dropping by at least five degrees Celsius between Monday and Tuesday, according to meteorologists. The chilly weather is expected to persist in the coming days, bringing pleasant conditions for the start of Ramadan.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reported that temperatures fell below 10°C in some areas on Wednesday, marking one of the coldest spells of the season.
What Caused the Sudden Drop in Temperature?
According to Dr. Ahmed Habib, a meteorologist at NCM, the cold wave is the result of a cold air mass moving southward from Iraq, northern Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.
"The weather shift is due to an air mass moving from the north of the Arabian Gulf, particularly from Saudi Arabia and Iraq. This air mass, influenced by north-westerly winds and an extension of high pressure, originated in a very cold region before gradually moving towards the UAE," Dr. Habib explained in an interview with Khaleej Times.
Why Are Neighboring Countries Colder?
While the UAE is experiencing a cold spell, some neighboring countries are facing even more extreme conditions.
- Saudi Arabia has been hit by a moderate cold wave, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some northern and central areas.
- Kuwait recorded its coldest February in 60 years, as a Siberian polar cold wave caused temperatures to plummet to -1°C in locations such as Mataraba and Salmi.
Dr. Habib explained that as the cold air mass travels further south, it modifies and warms slightly, which is why temperatures in the UAE remain higher compared to northern Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
"While northern Saudi Arabia recorded freezing temperatures, the UAE saw nighttime lows of 9-10°C with a warmer daytime maximum," he said.
Weather Outlook for Ramadan
The start of Ramadan will see mild and comfortable weather, with cooler mornings and nights, particularly in interior and mountainous regions.
"Over the next five days, temperatures will remain relatively steady, with only a slight rise expected. The early mornings and nights will remain cool to moderate, providing pleasant conditions for fasting," Dr. Habib noted.
Cloud Cover & Rain Forecast
- Light rain is expected in Ras Al Khaimah on Wednesday evening and Thursday.
- Abu Dhabi will mostly see cloudy skies, but no significant rainfall.
- The sea will remain rough in the Arabian Gulf, while the Oman Sea will be moderate to rough at times.
Lower Wind Speed Makes Weather Feel Warmer
Although the cold air mass remains in place, the wind speed has decreased, making the weather feel slightly warmer than on Tuesday.
"Today, the weather is sunnier than yesterday, and the north-westerly winds are less intense. As a result, even though the air mass remains cold, the reduced wind speed makes it feel warmer," Dr. Habib said.
Final Thoughts: A Comfortable Start to Ramadan
As the UAE approaches Ramadan, the cooler temperatures will bring comfort to those fasting, especially during the early days of the holy month. With mild mornings, pleasant evenings, and only slight increases in temperature expected, residents can expect ideal weather conditions to continue into the first weeks of Ramadan.
