Bahrain braces for soaring summer heat, interferes with outdoor plans

TDT | Manama                                                             

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Julia Cassano

As summer approaches, Bahrain is expected to reach its usual soaring temperatures, which lessens the preference for outdoor activities or common hang-out spots amongst the younger population.

The Meteorological Directorate said that temperatures are expected to reach 39°C this week, combined with a high humidity percentage, which diminishes the idea of outdoor activities for those living in Bahrain to enjoy.

Social media in the Kingdom was abuzz with Bahrainis becoming frustrated with the blazing temperatures interfering with their usual outdoor plans. It is a common practice for Bahrainis to enjoy the coffee shops after work or on the weekends to relish the cool breeze and lively atmosphere, as most prefer outdoor seating over indoor seating. But as the temperature rises, many people are often forced to sit indoors.

Amazing

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Hala said that the winter period is amazing in Bahrain, as the weather fits perfectly with outdoor activity plans without being too cold or hot.

“But as soon as May hits, the weather is simply unbearable, and many are forced to sit indoors, which is not what we would prefer,” Hala said.

However, many Bahrainis shared with The Daily Tribune that outdoor misting systems could help ease the unbearable temperatures and allow residents and citizens to enjoy outdoor seating and hangout spots during the warmer months.

Many Gulf countries have implemented such misting systems, including the UAE. Italgof mist fog systems are used in Dubai in parks, residential areas, restaurants, and hotels to combat the heat waves experienced in the UAE.

Qatar also implemented cooling systems in its stadiums, where cool air wafts into the stadiums through specially positioned grilles in the stands and large nozzles facing the pitch. Cooled air is then drawn back, re-cooled, filtered, and pushed out using air circulation.

Climate experts claim that the Middle East is rapidly getting hotter, is now warming at twice the global average, and could be 4°C warmer in 2050. And with warmer temperatures affecting the MENA region, residents and citizens in the Kingdom are claiming that outdoor cooling systems are quickly becoming more and more prudent.