Drizzle fails to dampen Qatar Sports Day spirit

Doha: The early morning rains in Doha was like a welcome shower for the numerous sports activities happening in the country on the occassion of National Sports Day. It failed to dampen the spirits as visitors continue to pour in to the various tents at MIA, Katara, Aspire Zone and Pearl Qatar.

Even the organisers expecting showers had rains coats, tents set up at locations to ensure that the enthusiasm does not dim. And as soon as the rains turned to drizzle everyone was out to continue with their activities.

The Qatar Meteorology Department had forecast a continuation of rain and unstable weather conditions. Today, the weather would continue to be hazy and cloudy with scattered rains.

In its special National Sport Day forecast, the weather bureau has stressed that most part of the country will have scattered rains during the day, with good chances of thunderstorm by evening. Within Doha, the wind speed will be 6 to 12 knots and temperature will be between 22 and 19 degrees Celsius. Outside the city, the temperature will range between 23 and 18 degrees Celsius. 

Meanwhile, the rain emergency team, has intensified its efforts to prevent and tackle water-logging in areas during rains. The team has stationed number of vehicles, machinery and equipment in different parts of the country to tackle water logging. 

The control room of the rain emergency prepares team responds to any communications received through phone calls or social media sites. Hotlines for each municipality has been set up.

Ministry of Interior cautions motorists over wet weather

The team comprises of members from Ministry of Municipality and environment and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal).

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior cautioned motorists about the risks of driving in the current weather conditions. Water on roads can cause vehicles to skid and hence drivers have been asked to drive slow, “as it allows more of the tire's tread to make contact with the road, which leads to better traction,” the ministry posted on their social media page. 

The ministry also stressed that it takes about three times longer to brake on wet roads than on dry roads. Hence the motorists should keep longer distance between the vehicles. Tailgating can be disastrous and hence a distance more than two car lengths should be maintained between the vehicles. Motorist are also asked to avoid overtaking and unnecessary lane-changes.

“Rain weather requires you to quietly, smoothly use the controls of your car: steering wheel, brakes, gas pedal. Don’t drive at speed that does not suit the road’s condition, and make sure you reduce speed when the road is wet. Be sure that the wipers are in good condition, and clean the windshield and rear window repeatedly. In case, water vapor gathered on the car windscreen, run the air conditioner to clear it for more visibility,” the ministry advised.

Added to it, motorists have been asked to avoid driving through water- logging on the roads as the depth or any other possible obstacles are unknown, the ministry cautioned.