The wet spell is expected to resume in the country as the Qatar Met department has forecast scattered rain – which may be thundery at times — today along with strong winds in some places.
Some rain is likely tomorrow as well.
The weather office has issued a warning for similar conditions, as well as high seas, in offshore areas, too.
The Met department has urged people to be cautious and check weather conditions before venturing into the sea in view of the expected conditions.
In a report yesterday, the department said weather charts indicate that there are chances of rain in the country on Tuesday and Wednesday (February 27 and 28). The weather is expected to gradually become partly cloudy to cloudy and there is a chance of scattered rain, which will mostly be light to moderate in intensity but may become thundery at times in some areas, accompanied by strong winds, according to the forecast.
The prevailing winds will be northeasterly to southeasterly, moderate to fresh.
Today, the wind speed may go up to 25 knots inshore during thundershowers and 22 knots offshore, with the sea level rising to 7ft. The temperature in Doha is expected to range from 19-25C today; yesterday, it was 18-24C.
Interior Ministry issues tips for safe driving during rainy conditions
With Qatar receiving rain recently and more expected in the coming days, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has issued an advisory on safe driving in rainy conditions. The advisory includes a series of dos and don’ts for motorists to ensure the safety of road users. Rainfall causes slick conditions, which increases the chances of vehicles skidding on the roads. “The best way to avoid skidding is to slow down the vehicle. Driving at a slower pace affords enough control and allows more of the tyre’s tread to make contact with the road, which leads to better traction,” the advisory states. It takes about three times longer to brake on wet roads than on dry ones, the MoI points out, stressing that “as more distance is required to brake, it is important not to tailgate. Keep more than usual distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.” Motorists are advised to follow safety guidelines during bad weather to enhance traffic safety and prevent accidents. “Driving during bad weather requires greater care, concentration and non-engagement with other things, especially when it rains and visibility is low,” the advisory notes. “Park your vehicle off the road if you cannot see the road, so that you ensure your safety and that of others.” If water vapour accumulates on the windscreen, one should run the airconditioner to clear it for better visibility. Also, a motorist should check the validity of the vehicle’s sign lights and windshield wipers. “Turn on the windshield wipers to remove water on the car’s glass,” the MoI says. During rain, one should avoid applying too much pressure on the brakes as this may cause the car to slip due to difficulties in retaining control, the advisory adds.
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