UAE cautions residents against cold weather as temperatures drop to 5 °C
The United Arab Emirates is now experiencing the worst part of winter, which according to the Gulf heritage calendar begins on January 12 and lasts until January 24. Temperatures below 5°C are not uncommon at this time, and the cold is especially noticeable in hilly areas.
UAE Faces Winter Chill
Notably, the coldest day this year was officially recorded on January 10, with Raknah (Al Ain) registering a temperature of 5.3°C at 7:30 a.m. Subsequent days also maintained a chilly atmosphere, with January 11 seeing a temperature of 5.8°C in the same region.
Historical weather patterns
According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, the period from January 12 to 24 is considered the midpoint of winter, witnessing the peak of cold weather. Historical data over the last 30 years indicates that the coldest period typically lasts for "three days" between January 16 and 18.
Al Drour Calendar Insights
The Al Drour calendar, a Gulf heritage calendar, designates the'sixtieth day' of the 'one hundred winters' as the peak of coldness, falling within the aforementioned ten days between January 12 and 24.
Traditional Arabian Gulf Calendar
The winter season in the traditional calendar of the Arabian Gulf is divided into two main periods: "Arba in Al Merei" and "Arba in Al Aqrabi," each comprising 40 days. 'Arba in Al Merei' starts around December 28 and is characterized by extreme cold and rainfall.
Distinctive Winter Phenomena
During 'Arba in Al Merei,' especially in northern regions at night, the cold intensifies, creating a distinct 'howling' sound reminiscent of wolves. This period sees temperatures reaching their lowest points, accompanied by intense cold and the formation of frost in the morning.
