Jordan | What is the scientific reason behind feeling hotter despite the normal summer weather?

Arab Weather - Meteorologists at the Arab Weather Center reported that the past few weeks have witnessed stable and usual summer weather in Jordan. Maximum temperatures in the main cities ranged between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius, with slightly higher temperatures recorded in the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, which usually witness higher temperatures due to their lower levels than sea level. These values are considered within the normal rates for this time of year, reflecting a relative stability in weather conditions without any extreme temperatures so far, making the summer season normal in various regions of the Kingdom.

Despite the absence of heat waves and a normal summer, the feeling of heat is high

Despite the absence of extreme heat waves and a normal summer this year, some people are experiencing a feeling of higher temperatures than those announced and recorded by weather stations. This is due to the high humidity combined with high temperatures, which leads to an increased feeling of heat.

A scientific indicator that links high temperatures and humidity to increased feelings of heat.

The Canadians invented the Humidex to measure the combined effect of heat and humidity on how hot a person feels. For example, a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius can feel hotter when the humidity is high than when the air is dry.

The Humidex Index is based on shade temperature and relative humidity. It is used as a measure of the perceived heat resulting from the combined effect of high humidity and high temperatures.

How does humidity affect the human body's sense of heat?

The body tries to maintain a constant internal temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. In hot weather, the body produces sweat that cools the body as it evaporates. But when the humidity is high, the sweat does not evaporate quickly enough, causing the body temperature to rise and increasing the risk to health, especially when the relative humidity reaches about 90% and evaporation stops completely.

The chart can be used to determine the Humidex Index. For example, at 30°C and 70% relative humidity, the Humidex Index is 41, which is considered “extremely uncomfortable” and physical exertion should be avoided in such conditions. Levels of significant discomfort begin at 40, and the situation becomes more serious at 45, while an index of 54 indicates an imminent risk of heatstroke.

God knows best.