The UAE is bracing for an intense summer season after Sweihan, located in Al Ain, recorded a scorching high of 49.4°C on Saturday, June 20. National Center of Meteorology officials noted that the reading occurred just before 1 p.m., marking a sharp climb from the milder temperatures seen earlier this spring. Residents across the country have reported feeling the immediate impact of this heatwave, with many opting to stay indoors during peak hours or finding that outdoor activities, including swimming, provide little relief from the stifling conditions.

This early surge in heat aligns with forecasts from meteorologists who have warned that the current summer is expected to be warmer than previous years. Much of this shift is being attributed to the potential return of the El Niño climate phenomenon, a natural occurrence that warms ocean waters and significantly alters global weather patterns. With global climate agencies suggesting a high probability of El Niño taking hold through the end of the year, experts are cautioning that the region could face persistent heatwaves and humidity, likely exacerbating the extreme temperatures already being felt by the public.