A child playing with a kite at Rumeila park along the Corniche yesterday. Though strong winds created a slightly dusty atmosphere, children enjoyed playing outdoor games. Qassim Rahmatullah
DOHA: Winter has finally arrived in Qatar, and weather forecasters have predicted a chiller day today with winds continuing and getting stronger at places.
High pressure over the Arabian Gulf is causing the windy weather, and north-westerly winds blowing from Europe will bring in more chill, according to the forecasters.
There will be slight dust and high seas offshore. The minimum temperature in Doha is expected to be 13 degrees Celsius, while day temperatures are forecast to be around 20 degrees Celsius.
Abu Samra is to witness the coldest day so far today with the maximum temperature forecast at 17 degrees Celsius, while the night is to be colder with the mercury dropping to 11 degrees Celsius.
Winds will be strong with dust in the coastal area compared to other parts of the country because of the high pressure prevailing over the Gulf. The winds will cause the sea to be high and rough, a forecaster said. The haze caused by strong winds and clouds at places would reduce visibility to a moderate level of three to seven kilometres.
The wind will continue to blow from the north-westerly direction with a speed of 15 to 25 knots onshore and up to 25 to 35 knots offshore.
Strong winds in the coastal areas will affect open places, leading to dust in the air and affecting visibility.
Waves are likely to reach a height of two to four feet near the shore and nine to 13 feet offshore.
People welcomed the cold spell yesterday while strong winds played havoc in some places.
The glass door of a newly-opened restaurant near the Corniche was damaged by winds on Friday night. The restaurant had to function yesterday without a door as it needs to be replaced.
“Something carried by wind hit the door and damaged it. We need to replace it,” said a restaurant staff.
THE PENINSULA
