DOHA: The Meteorology Department has forecast thundery rain with strong winds today, especially in the southern parts of the country.
With a rise in humidity levels, the city experienced a hazy weather yesterday, reducing visibility.
The hazy condition would continue today “with a chance some local rain in southern areas by afternoon,” said a weather report yesterday.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Health has advised the public, especially the elderly and those with asthma or respiratory diseases to avoid direct exposure to dust during sandstorms and stay at home unless it’s necessary to go out.
The tips include:
-Avoid exposure to dust especially if you recently had an eye or nose surgery.
- Ensure all doors and windows are closed properly to prevent dust from entering the building. If needed, use damp towels to seal off any openings in windows and underneath the doors.
- Avoid open areas during the peak of the sandstorm and low visibility.
- Wash your face, nose and mouth frequently to prevent dust from entering your lungs.
- Ensure wearing a protective mask or use a dampened piece of towel to cover your mouth and nose. Make sure you frequently change the mask or towel.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent eye infections and make sure you wear protective eye glasses when going out.
- Drivers must ensure all windows are closed while driving in dusty weather and only run the Air Conditioning system when needed.
- For individuals working in open areas. Make sure that you work in shifts to minimize the exposure to dust. Remember to wear the protective mask and glasses.
- Individuals vulnerable to severe allergies should start their prescribed antihistamine during sandstorms even before any symptom occurs.
- After the sandstorm, clean all dust from the house especially bedrooms and bed sheets.
- Report to the nearest health center if you develop watery eyes, cough, asthma or wheezing.
- Report to the Emergency Department if you have difficulty in breathing.
The Peninsula
