Marek Kučera 
The Arabian Peninsula is experiencing an intense heatwave as Kuwait recorded an extraordinary temperature of +50.9°C, while Al Ahsa in Saudi Arabia reached a scorching +49.3°C. These extreme temperatures are very close to June temperature records in the region.
🔥 KMeteorological Drivers of the Heatwave
This intense heat event is driven by a combination of synoptic and regional-scale atmospheric phenomena:
- Strong Subtropical Ridge: A persistent, intense high-pressure system (subtropical ridge) has anchored itself over the Middle East, promoting subsidence and clear skies. The descending air compresses and warms adiabatically, inhibiting cloud formation and maximizing solar insolation.
- Reduced Soil Moisture and Dry Surface Conditions: Prolonged dryness and lack of precipitation in recent weeks have depleted soil moisture, limiting evaporative cooling and allowing the land surface temperature to rise sharply.
- Favorable Wind Patterns: Light, offshore winds reduce the influx of moist maritime air, further limiting humidity and cloud cover, thus intensifying daytime heating.
Temperature Extremes and Regional Implications
- The 50.9°C in Kuwait represents one of the hottest temperatures recorded globally this year. This extreme reading was measured during the afternoon peak heating hours under nearly cloudless skies, with minimal humidity.
- In Al Ahsa, the 49.3°C temperature similarly reflects a peak diurnal maximum under intense solar radiation and dry air masses. The region’s desert climate and topography contribute to rapid heating and slow nocturnal cooling, prolonging heat stress.
Atmospheric Conditions and Forecast Outlook
Satellite imagery and upper-air soundings indicate a well-established thermal dome over the region, with 850 hPa temperatures exceeding +30°C, supporting surface temperature extremes. Forecast models suggest the ridge may persist over the next week, maintaining hot and dry conditions, with little chance for relief via precipitation or cloud cover.
🌍 Climate Factors and Regional Impacts
The Arabian Peninsula’s climate naturally supports high summer temperatures, but this year’s extremes are amplified by:
- Persistent high-pressure systems trapping hot air masses.
- Reduced soil moisture intensifying surface heating.
- Broader global warming trends increasing baseline temperatures.
These record highs are consistent with projections of more frequent and intense heatwaves in the Middle East due to climate change.
⚠️ Health and Safety Concerns
Extreme heat poses serious risks, including:
- Heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among outdoor workers.
- Strain on healthcare systems with increased heat-related emergencies.
- Challenges for vulnerable populations like the elderly and children.
Authorities urge residents to stay indoors during peak heat, remain hydrated, and monitor weather alerts closely.
📰 Conclusion
The recent 50.9°C in Kuwait and 49.3°C in Al Ahsa highlight the escalating heat threat in the Arabian Peninsula. These unprecedented temperatures underscore the urgent need for climate resilience measures and adaptive strategies to protect people and infrastructure in one of the world’s hottest regions.
Source: https://saudipedia.com/en/article/3724/history/landmarks-and-monuments/quba-mosque-in-al-ahsa
