UAE Enters Jamrat Al Qayth: 40 Days of Extreme Heat and Humidity Ahead
The United Arab Emirates has officially commenced Jamrat Al Qayth, the hottest and driest 40-day period of the year, marked by soaring temperatures and challenging weather conditions nationwide. This seasonal phase began on July 3 and will persist until August 10, as reported by the Emirates Astronomical Society.
During this period, daytime temperatures are anticipated to surpass 40°C in most regions of the UAE. Inland desert areas may experience temperatures exceeding 50°C during heatwaves, while coastal cities will face rising humidity, particularly in the evenings and early mornings. Authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions, as prolonged exposure to extreme heat heightens the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
What Is Jamrat Al Qayth?
Jamrat Al Qayth, which translates to “the embers of summer,” serves as a traditional seasonal marker across the Arabian Peninsula. It heralds the arrival of the hottest phase of the Gulf summer, commencing with the pre-dawn appearance of the first stars of the Gemini constellation on the eastern horizon.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, noted that the Gulf summer is traditionally divided into three phases. The first phase begins with the appearance of the Pleiades star cluster, followed by Jamrat Al Qayth, which signifies the peak of the season. The final phase, known as Kattat Al Suhail, commences with the appearance of Suhail (Canopus), during which humidity begins to rise and temperatures gradually decrease.
Jamrat Al Qayth is recognized as the most severe segment of the Gulf summer, characterized by intense sunshine, dry desert conditions, hot dust-laden Samoom winds, and increasing humidity along the coast.
What Weather Can Residents Expect?
Weather experts predict that the hot and dry conditions will persist in the coming weeks. Residents can expect:
- Coastal temperatures ranging from 41°C to 43°C
- Inland and desert temperatures between 45°C and 46°C
- Temperatures exceeding 50°C in select desert areas during heatwaves
- High humidity levels along coastal regions, particularly at night and in the early morning
- Intense sunshine, elevated UV levels, and warm nights with minimal relief from daytime heat
Al Jarwan explained that a heatwave, locally referred to as Waghrat Al Qayth, occurs when temperatures remain approximately 4°C above the seasonal average for two or more consecutive days. This phenomenon can occur multiple times throughout the season, depending on prevailing weather patterns.
As Jamrat Al Qayth progresses, moist air from the Arabian Sea may lead to localized cloud formation over the Hajar Mountains, accompanied by occasional dust waves and mirage effects.
UAE Authorities Urge Residents to Take Precautions
With extreme temperatures expected to continue, authorities and health experts are advising residents to adhere to simple precautions to ensure safety during the hottest weeks of summer. Recommendations include:
- Staying hydrated by consuming ample water throughout the day, even without thirst.
- Avoiding direct sunlight between 12 PM and 3 PM, when temperatures peak.
- Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help maintain body temperature.
- Applying sunscreen and wearing sunglasses and a hat when outdoors.
- Never leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles, as temperatures can escalate to life-threatening levels within minutes.
- Scheduling outdoor activities for early morning or after sunset whenever possible.
- Monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as dizziness, nausea, headache, and excessive fatigue.
- Checking on elderly relatives, young children, and individuals with chronic medical conditions, who are particularly vulnerable during extreme heat.
Midday Break Remains in Effect
The UAE’s annual Midday Break remains in effect during Jamrat Al Qayth, prohibiting outdoor work under direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day. This regulation aims to protect construction workers and others who spend extended periods outdoors. Employers are mandated to provide shaded rest areas, drinking water, and other facilities to mitigate the risk of heat stress.
Drivers Advised to Prepare for Extreme Heat
The intense summer temperatures can also impact vehicle performance. Authorities recommend that motorists take the following precautions before traveling:
- Regularly check tyre pressure, as excessive heat can increase pressure and the risk of blowouts.
- Inspect coolant levels to prevent engine overheating.
- Ensure the battery is in good condition, as high temperatures can diminish battery performance.
- Carry sufficient drinking water, especially on long journeys.
- Avoid leaving electronic devices, medicines, or other heat-sensitive items inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can rise rapidly.
- Park in shaded areas whenever possible or use a windshield sunshade to reduce heat accumulation inside the vehicle.
- Keep an emergency kit in the car, including water, a phone charger, and basic supplies in case of a breakdown.
What Comes Next?
Jamrat Al Qayth is expected to conclude on August 10, after which the Gulf will transition into the next traditional phase of summer, Kattat Al Suhail. While temperatures are likely to remain elevated, humidity typically increases during this period. The appearance of Suhail (Canopus) is traditionally viewed as an indication that the most intense part of the summer season is beginning to wane.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following official weather forecasts and health advisories as the UAE navigates its hottest weeks of the year.
Source: uaetimes.ae
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Published on 2026-07-06 19:35:00 • By the Editorial Desk
