UAE, June 21, 2024-Today, the United Arab Emirates experiences the peak of astronomical summer as the sun reaches its northernmost position, marking the summer solstice.
This phenomenon, occurring annually around June 21, brings the longest day of daylight hours for the region, lasting 13 hours and 48 minutes.
The summer solstice is a pivotal event in the Earth’s axial tilt, where the Tropic of Cancer directly faces the sun, resulting in the sun’s zenith at noon.
This year’s solstice holds particular significance globally, arriving earlier than usual on June 20 at 20:51 UTC, a rarity not seen since 1796. However, for the UAE and similar latitudes, including other parts of the Arabian Peninsula, the solstice remains steadfastly on June 21.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, elaborated on the celestial mechanics behind this phenomenon, emphasizing how the tilt causes the sun’s rays to be most direct, leading to prolonged daylight hours.
“At this time, shadows shorten significantly, particularly in the southern regions where the sun reaches its highest zenith,” noted Al Jarwan.
Accompanying the extended daylight are soaring temperatures typical of UAE summers. Daytime highs are expected to range between 41ºC and 43ºC, with nighttime temperatures offering little relief at 26ºC to 29ºC.
Some areas may even see temperatures surpassing 50ºC, underscoring the intensity of the summer heatwave.
Meteorologically, the onset of summer brings dry conditions across the Emirates, accompanied by hot and arid winds from the northern and northwestern directions.
These winds, laden with dust and sand, contribute to heat waves that can escalate temperatures by several degrees.
Looking ahead, the summer season in the UAE extends until August 10 and is characterized by predominantly dry weather. The latter half of summer, extending until the autumn equinox on September 23, is anticipated to bring an increase in humidity levels.
This atmospheric change, coupled with persistently high temperatures, may lead to the formation of cumulus clouds over mountainous regions and surrounding areas, potentially triggering localized thunderstorms.
As residents and visitors navigate through the peak of summer, authorities advise precautionary measures to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.
Staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours, and adhering to safety guidelines are crucial steps to ensure well-being during this period.
For now, the UAE embraces the longest day of the year with a mix of awe and readiness, as the summer solstice heralds a season of both natural spectacle and weather challenges.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members