How the El Niño Climate Phenomenon Could Influence UAE Weather This Autumn
A major climate event brewing in the Pacific Ocean is catching the attention of meteorologists, as the World Meteorological Organisation predicts a shift toward a powerful El Niño phase between July and September. While this phenomenon is known for triggering extreme weather globally—ranging from severe droughts to intense rainfall—its influence is highly localized. Experts from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) suggest that while the UAE has remained largely dry through the early summer, the ripple effects of this Pacific warming could begin to shift local conditions as we move into the cooler months.
Looking ahead to autumn, specifically October and November, residents may start to notice a change in the atmosphere. Meteorologist Ahmed Habib notes that while the current summer heat remains typical for the region, El Niño is expected to play a larger role as the seasons transition. Rather than causing a spike in temperatures, the phenomenon is likely to bring increased humidity to the UAE. This rise in atmospheric moisture is expected to provide the necessary fuel for cloud formation, potentially leading to a higher frequency of rainfall across the country compared to a standard year.