Earthquake of 5.1 magnitude rattles Iran amid Israel conflict
The quake, which Iran's Tasnim news agency said measured 5.2, struck at a depth of 10km, some 37km southwest of the city of Semnan, the USGS said.
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The National
a day ago
- The National
Lack of rain in the Middle East and North Africa
In March, during what is typically the rainy season in the UAE, the country's rainfall levels were far from those experienced in 2024 and now, in the middle of the dry season, they remain the same. However, the rainy season is not the same for all countries in the Middle East and North Africa, so is the region experiencing the same lack of rain? The answer is yes and this chart of the week shows it. By June, historically, the region should have accumulated about 119 millimetres of rain and the amount so far this year is 90mm, 24 per cent less than expected. This situation is mirrored in more than half the region, with countries and territories such as Djibouti, Gaza, the UAE, Lebanon, the occupied West Bank, Syria and Oman recording 30 per cent less cumulative rainfall than their respective historical average. Consequences of rain shortage Exceptional climate shifts have consequences for the environment and people. Dry soil and hotter air increase the likelihood of wildfires, as seen in recent months in Syria and Turkey. Drought removes moisture from grasses, shrubs and even trees, turning them into "fuel". With humidity low and vegetation brittle, a spark can ignite easily and wind can fan the flames across the landscape because there's little green to slow the spread. Additionally, prolonged heat causes the soil to compact and develop a hydrophobic crust. When heavy rain eventually arrives, that crust repels the water instead of absorbing it, so the run-off surges downhill and produces sudden flash floods, even though the ground was starved of moisture moments before. It's only half of 2025 and the rainy season is over in some countries, however, unusual rainfall patterns are one of the consequences of climate change, making it important to stay alert.
The National
a day ago
- The National
Peak summer brings heat warning for outdoor workers and the elderly in the UAE
As the UAE braces for one of the hottest spells of the summer, doctors are offering advice on how to stay safe as the temperature edges towards 50°C. Hot and humid conditions at the height of summer are nothing new, but with winds picking up dust and sand, air quality can make it a difficult time to be outdoors. Most will choose the sanctuary of working in an air-conditioned area but for those with little option but to spend time outside this summer, health professionals have called for caution. 'This week's high temperatures, increased dust levels and humidity in Dubai can pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, outdoor workers and those with respiratory or heart conditions,' Dr Mohamed Shafeeq, an internal medicine specialist at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, Dubai, told The National. 'To stay safe, it is advised to remain indoors during peak heat hours of 11am until 4pm, stay well hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Those with asthma or other respiratory issues should limit dust exposure and keep their medication on hand.' Symptoms to spot Common signs of heat or respiratory stress include dizziness, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, fatigue and chest discomfort. Any signs of heat stroke should be followed up with medical attention. 'These symptoms should not be ignored and medical attention should be sought promptly if they arise,' said Dr Shafeeq. 'Maintaining basic preventive measures during extreme weather is essential for protecting personal health and preventing avoidable complications. Public awareness and early action can make a significant difference. 'Special care should be taken with infants and the elderly, as they may not communicate symptoms clearly, and try to check on neighbours or family members who live alone. Employers should also ensure outdoor staff are given regular breaks, shade and water.' Since June 15, employers have been told to restrict their workers' exposure to heat, by limiting their time outdoors. Hot weather protocols have been in place during peak summer since 2004, under an initiative by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to keep people safe in the workplace. The directive runs until September 15, prohibiting work in direct sunlight or open air spaces from 12.30pm until 3pm. Ageing populations The number of people exposed to extreme heat around the world is growing year-on-year, the World Health Organisation says. In those over 65, a group vulnerable to heat illness, the number of older people dying from heat-related complications increased 85 per cent between 2000-2004 an 2017-2021. Physiological factors such as age and health status have a major effect on heat vulnerability. More people living longer into old age has put more at risk from heath complications associated with heatwaves, defined as a period where localised excess heat accumulates over a sequence of unusually hot days and nights. Dr Deepak Gopal Dube, a specialist of internal medicine at International Modern Hospital, said heat stroke can be life threatening. 'Heat-related conditions can be anything from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and then the more severe heat stroke, which is a life-threatening condition,' he said. 'We see heat-related illnesses particularly in people who are exposed in industries in a closed environment with a lot of heat inside, and of course those working outdoors. 'These people should be very careful regarding their prolonged heat exposure, if they are older there is an even greater risk of a stroke.' Dr Dube said regular rest stops away from direct sun can give the body an opportunity to cool down with ice packs and fluids. 'Workers exposed to the heat we are seeing currently should have intermittent rest periods, where every 30 to 45 minutes they should go to a cool place and get some hydration before resuming work,' he said. 'That can at least prevent any heat-related issues. We are getting into peak season now for temperatures, and it is likely to last until at least September so people should know the risks and take precautions.'
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: 300 labourers get free umbrellas, tips on preventing sunstroke
Dubai authorities provided umbrellas to 300 labourers to help prevent heat stress, and raise awareness about the dangers of high temperatures. Called the 'shade and reward' initiative, it was held at Al Eyas Police Point, by the Dubai Police Positive Spirit Council. Workers received tips on preventing sunstroke, the importance of staying hydrated and following essential safety guidelines. Authorities also briefed labourers about their legal rights and the services available through Dubai Police. As temperatures continue to soar, the public in UAE can also volunteer to hand out free ice creams and juices to workers, through the Al Freej Fridge initiative. The country also implemented a midday ban in effect from June 15 to September 15, which prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight from 12.30pm to 3pm daily.
