Warning from Met Office to stay indoors this Ramadan

DUBAI // Residents have been urged to stay out of the sun as the hottest part of the year begins this weekend.

Temperatures along coastal areas are expected to be about 45°C, while the border area with Saudi Arabia could feel heat of up to 49°C. This, coupled with humidity levels of between 55 and 85 per cent, will make it extremely uncomfortable for anyone venturing outdoors.

"Ramadan this year will be over the hottest time for the country," said a weather forecaster at the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology in Abu Dhabi.

"It's important to stay in the shade or indoors if possible."

The extreme heat is caused by a weather front coming from the south over the desert, which is likely to kick up dust, particularly in the interior of the country.

The temperature will remain at high levels over the weekend, although eastern areas may see some rain on Saturday.

"The humidity will make it very uncomfortable," said the forecaster at theMet Office.

"If the recorded temperature is 45°C but the humidity is at 40 per cent, then the heat you will feel will be closer to 55°C."

Winds will be light to moderate and conditions at sea will also be moderate.

nhanif@thenational.ae