Strong dust winds reduce visibility

Strong winds sent swirling dust which shrouded Doha and many parts of Qatar, leading to massive fall in visibility at 1km at most areas yesterday evening. Qatar Meteorology Department forecasts a mild weather today with some clouds and slight dust to blowing dust at places, getting cold by night.
“Latest satellite image shows a band of dust moving from northern Arabian Gulf towards Qatar’s skies with visibility expected to drop to 2km or less in some areas,” the Qatar Meteorology Department posted on its social media accounts. The North-westerly winds reached 21 knots in Umm Bab and Dukhan reducing visibility to 1 to 4km due to dust, yesterday, according to the MET department. Meanwhile, Ras Laffan received 0.6mm rainfall, last evening.
According to the MET department, dust moving from northern Arabian Gulf towards Qatar’s skies have caused visibility. The visibility is expected to improve gradually today. However, north-westerly winds are expected to continue until Monday with high waves. With the dusty weather, the MET department has issued list of precautionary measures to be taken, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health. High risk groups including the elderly, asthma patients, those with other respiratory conditions and all who had recent eye or nose surgeries have been urged to avoid direct contact with dust. People are urged to wash their face, nose and mouth regularly to prevent dust from reaching the lungs, wear masks while going outdoor and avoid rubbing eyes to prevent infections.
In case of severe breathing issues, people should be taken to emergency centres, while others can approach health centres. The department has urged all to be cautious while driving and to follow updates and warnings issued on its social media platforms.