Over the weekend, several regions in the UAE experienced heavy rainfall along with near-freezing temperatures, with some areas recording temperatures below 2ºC. According to Dr. Ahmed Habib, a climate expert from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), winter temperatures in the UAE can fluctuate due to shifting atmospheric pressure systems, leading to unpredictable weather patterns. This is typical during the winter months when such changes are more frequent.
The UAE recently experienced its coldest day so far this season, with frost and ice crystals appearing in some areas. However, residents can expect a warmer period this week. Dr. Habib explains that the region will see stable weather conditions starting Monday, January 6, due to high pressure building over the area, which will last until January 7. The temperatures are forecast to rise gradually by about 4°C. For example, interior regions that experienced daytime highs of 24-25°C will see temperatures reach 28-29°C by January 6-7.
This weather shift follows a period of cooler conditions caused by a low-pressure system. The heavy rain observed on Friday, which resulted in a significant amount of rainfall, is considered normal for this time of year. Dr. Habib attributes the cool weather to moisture from the Arabian Sea and a cold air mass moving towards the region, affecting the northern Gulf areas. As temperatures are expected to rise, residents can look forward to more consistent and mild weather in the coming days.
