The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recorded an extreme temperature of 50.4ºC, marking the highest reading for the month of May since the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) began tracking such data in 2003.
According to a post on X, “The peak temperature today reached 50.4°C (122.7°F) in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi at 14:30 local time.”
“This is the highest temperature for May that we have documented since our record-keeping started in 2003,” the NCM shared with AFP.
This occurrence surpasses the previous May record of 50.2ºC, which was noted back in 2009.
As summer approaches, the UAE often experiences exceptionally high temperatures, and this year has seen even warmer conditions than typical for this time of year.
Just last month, the UAE experienced its hottest April on record, with an average daily high of 42.6ºC.
This figure also exceeded the former April record of 42.2ºC set in 2017, according to the NCM’s comprehensive records initiated in 2003.
To help residents cope with the heat, the NCM released safety guidelines, urging individuals to remain in shaded areas, stay hydrated, dress appropriately for the weather, and apply sunscreen.