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The UAE’s weather pattern for the week is expected to remain largely stable but humid, as weak surface pressure systems continue to influence atmospheric conditions across the Emirates. According to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), an extension of an upper air high-pressure ridge is also contributing to the current weather setup, keeping daytime skies largely fair but giving rise to convective cloud formation in select areas.
The day began on a cool note, with the lowest recorded temperature of 17.5°C observed at Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah at 6:15am, underscoring the seasonal transition into milder conditions in the country’s mountainous regions.
Read more-Cloud seeding in focus as UAE readies for cooler weather
Weather experts anticipate fair to partly cloudy conditions for most of the day, with cloud build-up expected over eastern, northern, and some southern areas, which could result in isolated rainfall due to convective cloud activity. These developments are consistent with transitional season patterns typically observed in the UAE during late October.
While most regions will enjoy stable weather, the increased cloud activity in the eastern and southern parts could lead to short, light rain showers, particularly during the afternoon hours. This is typical for mountainous and interior regions that experience localized heating and updrafts during the day.
Humid nights could bring mist and reduced visibility
Humidity is expected to rise significantly during the night, especially across coastal and inland areas, potentially resulting in mist formation, particularly in western zones. Commuters and early-morning travelers are advised to remain cautious as visibility could be affected during the late-night and early-morning hours.
These nighttime conditions are expected to persist through the week, with high humidity levels ranging between 70 per cent and 90 per cent, a common occurrence during seasonal transitions in the UAE.
Daytime temperatures across the UAE are forecasted to remain within seasonal norms, with some regional variations:
- Coastal and island regions:
- Highs: 32°C to 36°C
- Lows: 22°C to 27°C
- Interior regions:
- Highs: 34°C to 37°C
- Lows: 19°C to 24°C
- Mountainous areas:
- Highs: 26°C to 32°C
- Lows: 18°C to 23°C
The noticeable drop in nighttime temperatures, particularly in interior and mountainous regions—is reflective of the gradual onset of the cooler season, providing some relief from the prolonged summer heat.
Winds light to moderate, dust possible in open areas
Winds across various regions will remain generally light to moderate, with occasional strengthening that may lead to blowing dust in exposed or open desert areas:
- Coastal and islands: Northeasterly to northwesterly at 10–20 km/hr, peaking at 35 km/hr
- Interior areas: Southeasterly to northwesterly at 10–25 km/hr, gusting up to 40 km/hr
- Mountainous zones: Southeasterly to southwesterly at 10–25 km/hr, with peaks up to 40 km/hr
Residents in open areas and those with respiratory sensitivities are advised to stay alert during windier periods when dust may reduce air quality and visibility.
Sea conditions are forecasted to be generally calm to moderate:
- Arabian Gulf: Slight to moderate
- Oman Sea: Slight
This stability benefits maritime operations and coastal activities, though local authorities continue to monitor for any unexpected changes due to shifting wind patterns.
Four-day forecast: Misty mornings and rain likely
The extended forecast suggests continued fair to partly cloudy conditions, with occasional convective clouds and elevated humidity at night, increasing the likelihood of fog or mist formation through the end of the week.
- Tuesday, October 21: Fair to partly cloudy with potential light showers in eastern and southern regions. Winds could reach up to 35 km/h. Mist likely overnight.
- Wednesday, October 22: Partly cloudy skies and afternoon cloud buildup expected. Increased nighttime humidity could lead to fog. Light to moderate winds throughout the day.
- Thursday, October 23: Mostly clear skies, but fog or mist may develop in the early morning hours. Winds will remain light but may generate mild dust.
- Friday, October 24: Partly cloudy with convective cloud formation in the eastern areas by afternoon. Humid conditions at night could cause mist, especially over coastal zones.
The NCM’s bulletin paints a picture of a mild and predictable weather week, with no major disruptions anticipated. However, high overnight humidity, patchy rainfall in certain zones, and early-morning mist or fog may present occasional challenges for drivers and outdoor operations.
