Amman, Aug. 20 (Petra) -- Temperatures are set to climb through Friday as a hot air mass from the Arabian Peninsula affects the Kingdom, pushing readings up to 5 degrees Celsius above seasonal averages before cooler conditions return over the weekend, according to the Jordan Meteorological Department.
The hot air mass will bring a slight rise in temperatures on Thursday, with relatively hot weather forecast across most regions. Very hot conditions will prevail in the Badia, the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and Aqaba, while moderate northeasterly winds are expected to become active at intervals, particularly in desert areas.
The Meteorological Department warned of reduced visibility due to blowing dust in the Badia and advised against prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours. It urged the public to increase water and fluid intake and warned against leaving children inside closed vehicles, even for short periods, or keeping flammable materials in vehicles.
Temperatures are expected to rise further on Friday, reaching 4 to 5 degrees above the seasonal average for this time of year. Hot weather will spread across most regions, while very hot conditions continue in the Badia, the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and Aqaba. Moderate northeasterly winds are forecast to become active at times.
The heat is expected to ease on Saturday as temperatures decline. Mild summer conditions will return to the mountainous areas, although the Badia, the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and Aqaba will remain hot. Moderate northwesterly winds are expected to strengthen at intervals.
Little change is forecast on Sunday, with mild summer weather continuing across the highlands and hot conditions persisting in the desert and low-lying areas. Moderate northwesterly winds will remain active at times.
Thursday's temperatures are forecast to reach 37 degrees Celsius in East Amman and 35 C in West Amman, with highs of 32 C in the northern highlands, 33 C in the Sharah highlands and 37 C across the plains.
The highest temperatures are expected in the desert and low-lying regions, reaching 41 C in the Badia and Aqaba, 42 C in the northern Jordan Valley and at the Dead Sea, and 43 C in the southern Jordan Valley.
//Petra// RZ
