UAE Weather Alert: 51.6°C Recorded in Al Ain, NCM Issues Rain and Dust Warnings

UAE weather alert: Yesterday, the National Center of Meteorology (NCM) recorded a record-breaking 51.6°C in Al Ain’s Sweihan district—the highest May temperature ever in the UAE. As the country faces this record heat, the NCM has issued urgent alerts for possible rain, strong winds, and blowing dust. Authorities are urging residents, families, and businesses to follow all official safety advice. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared.

TL;DR: UAE Weather Alert Snapshot

• 51.6°C Al Ain heat record set yesterday in Sweihan, Al Ain, marking the hottest May day ever recorded in the UAE.
• NCM forecast: Rain, gusty winds, and blowing dust likely, mainly in eastern regions this evening.
• Authorities urge caution for motorists and those outdoors; limit exposure and follow public safety advice.
• Calm sea conditions in the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea, but dust may affect visibility inland.
• Stay informed: Monitor trusted channels for live updates on weather alerts.

Yesterday’s Weather—Extreme Heat in Al Ain

Photo by Eslam Mohammed Abdelmaksoud

It’s official: the Al Ain heat record now stands at 51.6°C. On 24 May, Sweihan in Al Ain reached an intense midday peak, as confirmed by the NCM. This is the highest May temperature since official records began and just 0.4°C shy of the UAE’s all-time peak (52°C in 2010).

Yesterday, weather across the country ranged from fair to partly cloudy. Winds blew from southeast to northeast, often reaching 35 km/h. While the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea remained calm, inland regions saw heat lingering deep into the night. See the Gulf News alert for more.

Background on recent weather events is available on UAE Weather Updates.

NCM Issues Rain and Dust Warnings: What To Know

Following the extreme heat, the NCM forecast brings warnings for late afternoon and evening, mainly 5–8 PM and focused on Al Ain and the eastern UAE. Key details:

• Convective clouds expected over the eastern mountains may trigger localised rain.
• Gusty winds, up to 35 km/h, could lead to sudden, temporary dust storms.
• Blowing dust and sand may reduce visibility on highways and local roads, especially outside cities.
• Motorists should practice extra caution, especially in low-visibility or slippery conditions.

Follow all updates for the latest rain and dust alerts, as weather may change quickly. For more context and past alerts, see the UAE Thrive News May 11, 2025.

Public Safety Guidance for Residents and Motorists

• Hydrate regularly: Drink water often, especially if you work outdoors.
• Avoid peak outdoor hours: Stay indoors during the hottest periods (midday to late afternoon).
• Protect yourself from dust: Use a mask if you must be outside during a dust warning.
• Drive with care: Use headlights, keep windows closed, and slow down on dusty or wet roads.
• Monitor health: If you feel dizzy or weak, move to a cool place and seek medical help if symptoms persist.

Read the detailed travel safety tips in the Daily News Roundup 18 February 2025.

Today’s Weather Outlook

Forecasts for today show slightly cooler weather, though conditions remain demanding. Expect mostly fair skies, with clouds building over the eastern mountains in the afternoon. Winds should stay light to moderate, reaching up to 30 km/h from the southeast and northeast. The Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea stay calm, but heat will still be present.

Stay alert—more weather warnings may be issued, especially if further rain or dust is expected. Keep checking UAE Weather Updates for ongoing news. Always follow NCM advice and look out for new advisories.

Stay Informed: Where to Find Reliable Weather Updates

Up-to-date information can keep everyone safe. Use the official NCM website or mobile app for accurate forecasts and real-time alerts.

For businesses, residents, and commuters, ensuring you get every UAE weather update is simple. Subscribe to trusted UAE weather services and visit sections like UAE Weather Updates for instant updates. Enable prompt SMS or push alerts to help you plan ahead, avoid disruptions, and protect loved ones.

Getting clear, official news is essential.

Conclusion

The new Al Ain heat record sets a clear warning as summer begins. Yesterday’s UAE weather alert—mixing extreme heat with risk of rain and dust—shows that every official advisory matters. Whether travelling, working, or at home, stay alert, protect your health, and follow trusted sources for updates.

Sign up for local alerts and always check official advice so we can all stay safe during these extremes.

For more on how to cope with the UAE’s climate, visit Travels Dubai’s guide to coping with extreme heat.

Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay informed.