Dusty dawn changes colour of the sky

Residents of Doha and other parts of Qatar woke up to a dust-shrouded sky yesterday morning, even as they got some relief as the temperature came down from the mid-40C levels experienced on Saturday. The authorities concerned advised people to exercise caution in view of the prevailing conditions, with the Qatar Met department re-issuing an advisory prepared in co-ordination with the Ministry of Public Health on how to stay safe during dusty spells. Today’s forecast says strong winds and high seas are expected in offshore areas towards the north, where the wind speed may go up to 22 knots at times. It will be relatively hot today and some clouds are expected at times along with slight dust. The maximum temperature recorded in the country yesterday was 39C in Turayna and Ruwais, down from Saturday’s 46C in Abu Samra and Abu Hamour. In Doha, too, the mercury level dropped to 38C yesterday as compared to 45C on Saturday. Today, the maximum temperature is expected to be 37C in Doha and Abu Samra.