UAE Shivers in Record-Breaking Cold

Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) bundled up for a chilly start to the weekend as the country experienced its coldest temperatures of the year so far. On March 2nd, the mercury dipped to a bone-chattering 2.3°C in Jais Mountain, Ras Al Khaimah, surpassing the previous day's low of 2.4°C recorded in the same location.

This significant drop in temperature marks a shift from the recent pleasant weather that graced the region, following a period of rainfall. The cooler conditions extended beyond the mountainous areas, with other parts of the country witnessing lows of 4.5°C and 5.5°C in Jabal Al Rahba and Mebreh mountain, respectively.

The unexpected cold snap prompted residents to seek warmth, with many opting for outdoor activities like camping and hiking opting to stay indoors. Social media platforms buzzed with photos and videos showcasing the uncharacteristic winter scenery, with some residents even capturing frost blanketing the landscape – a rare sight in the typically warm and sunny UAE.

While the recent cold spell is a departure from the usual winter experience in the UAE, it serves as a reminder of the country's diverse weather patterns, capable of offering a brief yet refreshing respite from the scorching summer months. However, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) forecasts a gradual rise in temperatures in the coming days, with conditions expected to return to the more typical winter norms.

Experts attribute the recent drop in temperature to a combination of factors, including a northerly wind flow and clear skies allowing for efficient heat radiation overnight. These conditions are conducive to colder temperatures, particularly in the mountainous regions of the UAE.

While the chilly weather may pose some challenges, it also brings with it a welcome change of pace for residents accustomed to the hot and arid climate. The brief spell of cooler temperatures offers a unique opportunity to experience a different side of the UAE and enjoy the beauty of winter in this desert nation.