Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has advised the public to take basic health and safety precautions against windy weather as the Qatar Meteorology Department has forecast strong winds for the coming days.
Blowing dust kicked up by strong winds is expected to create hazy conditions across the country and could pose health hazards to those with sinus allergies and respiratory infections.
Those most at risk of contracting respiratory infections, including infants and young children, the elderly, people with a history of asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, individuals with heart disease, pregnant women and those who work outdoors, such as construction or delivery workers, are advised to be particularly cautious.
Residents with asthma and other respiratory conditions are encouraged to use nebulisers and bronchial dilatators directly after the onset of asthma symptoms and those with persistent coughs should also visit their nearest healthcare centre if they experience symptoms.
Dust consists of tiny solid particles floating in the air, which can get past the lungs’ natural defences and harm sensitive lung tissue. Fine particles can irritate the lungs and trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks. Prolonged exposure to airborne dust can cause chronic breathing and lung problems, as well as heart disease.
HMC has recommended the public to avoid going outside during high winds or low visibility when dust levels are particularly harmful and keep the windows and doors closed.
When outside, people are advised to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth to lessen the particles of dust being inhaled.The public is also advised to keep the car’s windows closed, and opt for air conditioning instead of fresh air, while driving.
People should avoid rubbing their eyes and if possible, use protective eyewear such as airtight goggles. If the eyes become irritated, rinse with water and be especially careful if contact lenses are used.
Similarly, those who are prone to bad allergies should start using antihistamines before symptoms begin.
Hot day with strong winds expected in Qatar
Strong winds are again expected in parts of the country during the daytime on Tuesday, the Qatar Met department has said.
Offshore areas, too, are likely to see strong winds and high seas on Tuesday, according to the weather report.
The detailed forecast says the wind (northwesterly) speed will be 10-18 knots in inshore areas, going up to 23 knots in some places during the day before dropping to 5-12 knots by night. It will also be hot during the day and slight to blowing dust is expected in some places at times.
Offshore, the wind (northwesterly) speed is likely to be 16-25 knots, reaching a high of 30 knots in the early hours of the day and decreasing to 8-18 knots by the evening. Dusty conditions have also been forecast at times, while the sea level may rise to 10ft in some places at first and fall to 3-5ft by the evening.
A maximum temperature of 40C is expected on Tuesday in Doha, Mesaieed and Wakrah, followed by 39C in Al Khor.
Monday, the maximum was 40C in Al Rayyan, Mesaieed and Turayna, while in Doha it was 38C.
