UAE weather alert: Dubai and Abu Dhabi face dust warnings as temperatures hit 45°C

Dubai: The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a nationwide dust and wind warning as summer temperatures surge into the mid-40s across the UAE.

A significant shift in weather patterns is bringing fresh northwesterly winds to the region from today, Thursday, June 4, through Saturday, June 6. While these winds typically average speeds of 10 to 25 km/h, the NCM warns they are expected to peak at 40 km/h. The high-speed gusts will kick up widespread dust and sand during the daytime, severely affecting exposed areas and the country's western region.

Travel and health warnings issued

The dusty conditions will significantly reduce horizontal visibility across major highways and residential sectors. The NCM strongly advises both residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution while driving and recommends limiting outdoor exposure until the atmospheric dust settles.

Severe sea conditions: Avoid nighttime swimming

In addition to blowing dust, the strong northwesterly winds are heavily impacting coastal waters. A marine warning is currently in place for the Arabian Gulf:

Arabian Gulf: Conditions will be moderate to rough during the day, escalating to very rough by night, with wave heights reaching peak swells of seven to nine feet. Residents are urged to completely avoid nighttime beach activities.

Oman Sea: In contrast, the eastern coast will remain safe and calm, with slight sea conditions and gentle waves peaking at a maximum height of three feet.

Peak temperatures: Inland regions bear the brunt

While coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are seeing daytime highs cap at 40°C before dropping into the late 20s overnight, internal regions are experiencing the most intense heat. Al Ain is forecasting the highest temperature in the country today at 45°C, closely followed by Ras Al Khaimah at 44°C and Liwa at 43°C.

Here is the complete breakdown of minimum and maximum temperatures across the Emirates today:

Maximum Temp (°C) Minimum Temp (°C)

Al Ain 45°C 28°C

Ras Al Khaimah 44°C 31°C

Umm Al Quwain 43°C 31°C

Liwa 43°C 29°C

Ajman 42°C 30°C

Sharjah 41°C 30°C

Dubai 40°C 29°C

Abu Dhabi 40°C 28°C

Fujairah 40°C 31°C