Dubai: The UAE is seeing a slight dip in temperatures today.Many credit the temperature decrease to the rise of the Suhail star, expected on August 24. The Suhail star, or Canopus, is the second-brightest star in the night sky and traditionally marks the beginning of the end of peak summer heat in the UAE. But how accurate is this prediction?Dr Mohamed Al Ebri, director of the department of meteorology at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), advised: “⁠The appearance of the Suhail star is a useful traditional seasonal indicator; however, it is not itself the cause of changes in weather. It is a well-known astronomical indicator and part of the region’s traditional climate heritage, and it generally coincides with the beginning of a gradual transition from the peak of summer towards more moderate conditions.”From a scientific perspective, there is no direct connection between the Suhail star and a transition to cooler weather. He explained: “It does not mean that there will be a sudden change in weather or an immediate and significant decrease in temperatures. Changes in weather conditions are associated with the gradual evolution of astronomical and climatic factors, such as the decreasing solar elevation angle and the gradual reduction in solar radiation duration, in addition to changes in regional weather patterns.”Mercury in the low-40sThe NCM forecasts fair to partly cloudy skies today, with convective cloud formation by the afternoon in the eastern parts of the country.Coastal and island regions to experience highs between 37°C and 42°C, while internal regions will be warmer, at 42°C to 46°C.Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will peak at 41°C today, while Dubai will reach 39°C and Ajman 38°C. Fujairah will experience 36°C temperatures, while Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain will experience temperatures of 43°C and 40°C respectively.NCM advice for summer heatHumidity is also expected to increase by night and by Friday morning over some coastal areas, with a chance of fog or mist formation. The authorities advise residents and visitors to be cautious when driving in these conditions, as visibility may be reduced due to fog.Dr Al Ebri shared advice for coping with the heat: “People are advised to avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours, particularly from midday through the afternoon. It is also recommended to increase water and fluid intake, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. They should also ensure that vehicle tyres and cooling systems are in good condition and should never leave children, elderly persons, or animals inside vehicles, even for short periods, due to the rapid increase in temperatures inside vehicles.”Rough Arabian GulfThe NCM expects slight sea conditions in the Sea of Oman, with gentle waves, reaching heights of two feet on-shore and three feet off-shore. The Arabian Gulf, on the other hand, is expected to go from slight to moderate, becoming rough at times along the western coast. Wave heights in this water body will reach two feet on-shore and up to six feet off-shore.Here is the complete breakdown of minimum and maximum temperatures across the Emirates today:Maximum Temp (°C) Minimum Temp (°C)Dubai 39°C 33°CAbu Dhabi 41°C 30°CAl Ain 43°C 29°CSharjah 41°C 31°CAjman 38°C 31°CFujairah 34°C 32°CRas Al Khaimah 43°C 29°CUmm Al Quwain 40°C 29°CLiwa 43°C 27°C

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