Longest Day of The Year officially marks the advent of summer in UAE
Summer in Dubai has officially set in. According to Arab Union for Space and Astronomy Sciences, the UAE will witness its summer solstice from June 21 to June 22, marking the longest day of the year with a duration of 13 hours and 48 minutes.
This annual astronomical event signifies the peak of daylight duration for the region, providing nearly 14 hours of continuous sunlight. This year, the summer solstice commenced on June 20 for the majority of countries worldwide at 20:51 UTC, honouring the earliest occurrence since 1796. In the UAE, however, the longest day of the year fell on June 21. And the authorities further observed that the date will occur earlier in the forthcoming leap years. The summer solstice not only highlights the longest day but also signifies a key moment in the astronomical calendar, as the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, offering a unique experience of extended daylight for the residents of the UAE.
It is in the third week of June, the nation enters what is termed ‘astronomical summer.’ This period begins with the summer solstice, during which one of Earth’s poles tilts closest to the sun, resulting in the year’s longest day in the UAE.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, the chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society and member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, stated, “With the date of the summer solstice, the sun is perpendicular to the Tropic of Cancer at its northernmost position… while the shadow is absent at noon in the perpendicular areas, including the southern regions of the country, and the meridian shadow disappears. Throughout the Arabian Peninsula, the shortest meridian shadow is throughout the northern half of the Earth.” He also specified that daytime temperatures will vary from 41ºC to 43ºC, with nighttime temperatures ranging from 26ºC to 29ºC. Additionally, certain regions may experience temperatures exceeding 50ºC.
During the initial days of summer, spanning from June 21 to August 10, predominantly dry conditions will prevail. The northern and northwestern regions will experience brisk hot and dry winds, resulting in dust and sand being swept across the country. These winds will create heat waves, elevating temperatures by a minimum of four degrees. However, during the latter part of summer, spanning from August 11 until the autumn equinox on September 23, the nation will encounter elevated levels of humidity coupled with persistent high temperatures. Humid air currents will sweep across the country, leading to the development of cumulus clouds over mountainous regions and their surroundings. These atmospheric conditions may result in thunderstorms.
Motorists have been urged to exercise caution while driving to ensure public safety due to reduced visibility caused by windy and dusty weather. The locals are encouraged to take necessary safety precautions to protect themselves from the severe heat and dust.
While certain residents may opt for a getaway to nearby Oman, others are opting to leisurely explore the lesser-known areas within the country. The city provides a variety of destinations, ranging from verdant parks to sun-kissed beaches, presenting travelers with a range of experiences and leisure options.
Written by Ekparna
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