The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced its hottest April since comprehensive records began in 2003, with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) reporting an average daily high of 42.6 degrees Celsius (108.7 Fahrenheit).
This surpassed the previous record of 42.2 Celsius (108 Fahrenheit) set in April 2017.
The Gulf state has been under a significant heatwave for several days, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay well-hydrated and avoid outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day.
According to NCM meteorologist Ahmed Habib, this intense heat was caused by a very hot air mass originating from the desert.
On April 27, the emirate of Fujairah recorded a peak temperature of 46.6 Celsius (115.9 Fahrenheit), which is the second-highest April temperature ever documented in the UAE.
This year’s extreme heat contrasts sharply with April 2024, when the UAE faced its heaviest rainfall in 75 years, resulting in fatalities and widespread disruption in Dubai.
Scientists have suggested that the previous year’s extreme rainfall was likely intensified by global warming.
While being a major oil exporter, the UAE has also been investing considerably in renewable energy sources.
