The hottest 40 days of summer in the UAE begins on July 3; Temperatures reach 50 degrees Celsius / Photo – Gulf News
The UAE is preparing to enter the most intense phase of the summer season, with experts warning that temperatures could rise above 50 degrees Celsius with the start of the annual “carbstone” period on July 3.
This phase lasts for 40 days until August 10, and is traditionally considered the hottest and driest period of the year across the UAE and the wider Arabian Peninsula, bringing about scorching daytime heat, dry desert winds and frequent heatwaves.According to the Emirates Astronomy Society, this season represents the second and most intense phase in the traditional summer calendar for the Gulf region. Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, who is also a member of the Arab Federation for Astronomy and Space Sciences, said that the period begins with the appearance of the first stars of the Gemini constellation before dawn above the eastern horizon, an astronomical event that has long been observed and traditionally signals the arrival of peak summer conditions.While the calendar may indicate the start of July, weather experts say this is the time when true summer in the UAE reaches its hottest stage, with extreme heat impacting daily life, outdoor work, travel and energy demand across the country.
What is anthrax?
Known locally as “summer coals,” the gothic anthracite has been known for generations as the harshest period in the climate of the Arabian Peninsula. It represents the second phase of the traditional summer season, following the appearance of the Pleiades star cluster, and continues until August 10 before giving way to the next seasonal phase characterized by the appearance of the Suhail star.
During these 40 days, daytime temperatures in coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi generally range between 41°C and 43°C, while inland and desert areas often record 45°C to 46°C. During particularly intense heatwaves, temperatures in parts of the interior can exceed 50°C, making it the most extreme weather period of the year.Al-Jarwan said that the season is characterized by hot, dry “sumoon” winds that blow over desert areas, leading to extremely dry conditions and an increase in the intensity of the daytime temperature.
He added that Waghrat Al-Qaith, local heat waves, often occur during this period, with temperatures remaining higher than seasonal averages by at least 4 degrees Celsius for two or more consecutive days.
Temperatures exceed 50 degrees Celsius in the Emirates
Air temperature only tells part of the story.According to Al Jarwan, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the temperature of vehicles and exposed metal surfaces to rise to around 70 degrees Celsius, creating serious risks for anyone spending time outdoors during the middle of the day. The combination of intense sunlight and dry desert winds can rapidly increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable groups.As July progresses, another weather pattern begins to emerge.Moisture carried inland by the monsoon trade winds from the Arabian Sea gradually raises humidity levels, especially across coastal areas. By the latter part of the Anthracite period, the interaction between moisture and intense daytime heating can help generate convective clouds over the Hajar Mountains, leading to isolated microclimatic activity despite dry conditions. This period is also accompanied by the formation of mirages, dust waves, and decreased horizontal visibility in some areas.Meanwhile, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has predicted a 98% chance of an El Niño event occurring between July and November, with temperatures expected to remain close to seasonal averages. The Met Office also warned that humidity will make conditions much hotter than the actual air temperature, especially in coastal cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where RealFeel temperatures can soar well into the mid-40s even when thermometer readings are lower.
How residents can stay safe during peak heat in the UAE
Authorities and weather experts advise residents to reduce exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest period of the day, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities whenever possible.Drivers are urged to avoid leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles, while anyone working outdoors should follow heat safety guidelines, wear light-coloured clothing, and take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Motorists should also remember that steering wheels, seat belts and vehicle interiors can become dangerously hot after prolonged exposure to the sun.The anthrax is scheduled to continue until August 10, and meteorologists expect the UAE to witness several rounds of extreme heat before the humidity level gradually rises towards the end of the season. For many residents, the coming weeks will represent the country’s toughest test of summer, with extreme temperatures, dry desert winds and recurring heatwaves defining daily life across the Emirates.
