Doha

The Qatar Met department issued safety tips for the public in view of the unstable weather conditions expected in the country, including Doha, over the weekend.

Moderate to heavy rain is likely over most areas in Qatar during the weekend, along with a chance of thundershowers.

In a post on its Twitter page, the Met department has advised motorists to drive carefully and reduce speed during the rain. They have been also told not to take pictures with phones or other devices while driving.

The advisory also notes that people should try to get indoors quickly during thunderstorms and, if driving, stop the car at a safe place and keep the windows closed until the storm dissipates.

Residents have also been advised not to venture into the sea until the weather improves.

Rain is expected in both inshore and offshore areas Friday.

The detailed forecast states that thunderstorms, along with strong winds and low visibility, are expected across the country. The wind speed will range from 12-22 knots, going up to 30 knots during thundershowers, in these areas, which will remain misty and cloudy.

Meanwhile, strong winds, high seas and thunder activity are likely in offshore areas, which will see partly cloudy to cloudy conditions on Friday. The wind speed will be between 18 knots and 25 knots, reaching a high of 35 knots during the day.

Visibility may drop to 2km or less at some places during thunder and rain. The weather report also notes that the sea level is likely to range from 9-13ft during the thundershowers.

The minimum and maximum temperatures in the country are expected to be 15C and 21C, respectively, with the forecast for Doha being 17C and 20C.