The UAE is set to witness its summer solstice, marking the year's longest day at 13 hours and 48 minutes, occurring from June 20 to June 22, as per Astronomy and Space Sciences. Typically, the summer solstice falls on June 21, but this year it will be on June 20 at 20:51 UTC, the earliest since 1796. Authorities highlight that future leap years will also see an earlier solstice. The third week of June ushers in 'astronomical summer,' commencing with the solstice when Earth's poles tilt closest to the sun, signifying the longest day in the UAE. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, explains that during this period, the sun aligns perpendicularly with the Tropic of Cancer, causing no shadow at noon in southern UAE regions. Temperatures are expected to range from 41ºC to 43ºC during the day and 26ºC to 29ºC at night, with some areas potentially reaching over 50ºC. The first half of summer, from June 21 to August 10, will bring generally dry conditions with hot, dry winds stirring dust and sand, elevating temperatures by at least four degrees. Conversely, the second half of summer, from August 11 to September 23, will see high humidity alongside continued high temperatures, with humid winds possibly forming cumulus clouds and thunderstorms over mountainous areas.
Text: Lara Palmer
11.06.2024
13-hour 48-minute Day Marks Earliest Solstice Since 1796, Astronomical Summer Begins