UAE residents can anticipate rain in certain areas over the next few days as the country experiences a shift to cooler temperatures. From September 28 to 30, rainfall is likely as convective clouds may form towards the east and south, and over internal areas, according to a forecast by the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). On September 29, rain may also be observed in northern areas.
During these days, humidity is expected, with fog and mist likely during the mornings. Temperatures are also set to drop. With the autumn equinox observed on September 22, the UAE summer officially came to an end. The days following the equinox have seen a decline in temperatures, with daytime highs dropping below 40°C; residents can now enjoy more pleasant weather with occasional light winds.
The drop in temperatures is particularly noticeable at night. While night and day were of equal duration following the equinox, nights will gradually lengthen as the country moves towards the winter season. Earlier forecasts by NCM had predicted rain during September, along with fresh winds that sometimes carry dust, reducing visibility. This is a result of the Indian monsoon depression weakening and the desert thermal lows over the Arabian Peninsula.
Astronomical sightings have long been used to predict changing weather patterns. An Arab saying states, 'If Suhail rises, the night cools down.' The end of peak summer was marked by the spotting of the Suhail star on August 24, also known as the 'Star of Yemen.' The country is currently in the 'Sufriya' period – 40 days after the star's sighting, when the weather fluctuates between peak heat and cooler temperatures.
Around mid-October, the weather is expected to stabilize, known as the 'Wasm' period. The cool winter season will commence 100 days after the rise of the Suhail star.
