Abu dhabi: The winter season has officially commenced in the UAE, bringing with it a shift in weather conditions, as confirmed by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). The season began astronomically in the Northern Hemisphere on December 22, marking the arrival of cooler weather across the country.
According to Emirates News Agency, the dominant weather pattern during this period is the Siberian high-pressure system. This system significantly influences the region by extending towards the Arabian Gulf, accompanied by active northwesterly or northeasterly winds. These winds facilitate the movement of cold air masses, leading to a noticeable decline in temperatures, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. In certain inland and mountainous regions, temperatures can drop below 0 degrees Celsius.
The UAE also experiences the impact of various low-pressure systems originating from the Red Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and regions to the east. These systems contribute to increased cloud cover and rainfall, with fog formation possible under stable atmospheric conditions, high humidity, and light winds, especially in the early morning.
The country's diverse topography, including the Arabian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and the Empty Quarter desert, results in varied local weather conditions. Inland desert areas experience cool to cold nights and mild daytime temperatures, while mountainous regions remain cool most of the time with colder nights. Coastal areas enjoy moderate weather, with mild winter days and suitable wave heights for marine activities.
Occasional rainfall during the winter enhances outdoor conditions, although heavy rain in specific areas can cause runoff in mountainous valleys. Authorities recommend caution and avoiding wadis during such events. Generally, winds remain light to moderate, supporting outdoor activities and camping, with stronger winds occurring on limited days.
Relative humidity levels are typically comfortable but can lead to fog formation in the early morning when combined with calm conditions. The NCM highlights the UAE's winter climate as conducive to a wide range of sports and recreational activities. Average winter temperatures range from 24-27°C for maximum temperatures and 14-16°C for minimum temperatures, with relative humidity averaging between 55-64 percent and wind speeds of 11-13 km/h.