The feeling of heat will be higher in the afternoon, not the noon.. What is the scientific reason?

2025-08-08 2025-08-08T12:30:15Z
طقس العرب
طقس العرب
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Arab Weather - Although the sun's rays are at their peak and directly overhead around noon, the sensation of heat doesn't peak during that time. Instead, it typically peaks in the afternoon. This is due to what is scientifically known as "thermal lag," a natural phenomenon that delays the rise in air temperature beyond the peak of solar radiation.

Air temperature peaks in the afternoon:

In the afternoon, the ground and surrounding surfaces have absorbed large amounts of solar radiation and begin gradually releasing that heat into the atmosphere. This causes the air temperature to rise, often reaching its highest levels between 3 and 5 p.m., as a result of concrete and asphalt surfaces absorbing the sun's rays.

Feeling suffocated and tired increases:

In the afternoon, the atmosphere becomes more humid and hot, especially in cities and concrete areas, where heat accumulates between buildings and roads. This accumulation leads to an increased feeling of heat distress, known as "heat stress," and the atmosphere can become visibly stifling and exhausting.

Body fatigue is cumulative:

It is also worth noting that feelings of physical stress accumulate throughout the day, especially with activity and movement in the morning and afternoon, which increases feelings of fatigue and exhaustion by the afternoon.

It is recommended to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during the afternoon, ensure adequate fluid intake, and avoid strenuous physical exertion during this period, especially for those most affected by heat, such as children and the elderly.

And God knows best.

This article was written originally in Arabic and is translated using a 3rd party automated service. ArabiaWeather is not responsible for any grammatical errors whatsoever.
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