Don't trust your dashboard for the official temperature

Muscat: As temperatures soar across the Sultanate of Oman during the summer season, many motorists have reported vehicle dashboard readings that appear significantly higher than temperatures announced by the Oman Meteorology Department, raising questions about the discrepancy.

According to weather experts, the difference stems from the methods used to measure air temperature. Official meteorological readings are obtained through calibrated instruments installed at designated weather stations that follow international standards. These sensors are positioned in shaded, well-ventilated locations to ensure they measure the actual air temperature rather than heat generated by surrounding surfaces.

Vehicle thermometers, on the other hand, are often influenced by local conditions. Sensors mounted on cars can be affected by heat radiating from asphalt roads, nearby buildings, and other vehicles, particularly during periods of intense sunshine. As a result, they may display temperatures several degrees higher than official readings.

Meteorologists explain that road surfaces can become substantially hotter than the surrounding air after prolonged exposure to sunlight. The heat released from these surfaces can temporarily raise the temperature around a vehicle's sensor, especially when the car is parked or moving slowly in congested traffic.

The phenomenon is particularly noticeable during Oman’s summer months, when ground temperatures may far exceed the air temperatures recorded at weather stations. Drivers may therefore observe dashboard readings reaching extreme levels, even though official measurements remain lower.

Authorities emphasize that weather forecasts, warnings, and climate records are based exclusively on standardized observations from meteorological stations, which are designed to provide accurate and comparable data. While car temperature displays offer a useful indication of local conditions, they should not be considered a substitute for official weather measurements.

Experts advise the public to follow updates issued by the Oman Meteorology Department for the most accurate information on temperatures, heatwaves, and weather conditions across the Sultanate.