Rare September rain forecast for windy, dusty Qatar

Strong winds and thunderstorms are in the forecast for Qatar today, according to the Qatar Meteorology Department (MET).

In a weather warning issued this week, the MET said that a shift in wind direction has resulted in increased humidity and cloud development.

This prompted a scattering of showers in northern Qatar yesterday, and a forecast of “thundery rain” today.

Cloud development is expected to continue tomorrow (Saturday), with a chance for isolated rain (thundery at times). pic.twitter.com/VjE1Us3Ue8

— أرصاد قطر (@qatarweather) September 4, 2015

But the chances of rain moving any further south, especially to Doha, are very remote, according to Steff Gaulter, senior meteorologist for Al Jazeera English.

Speaking to Doha News, she said the capital has seen rain only once in September over the past decade, at the end of the month in 2012.

“Rain in the north of Qatar at this time of year is more common, but certainly not something that happens every year,” she added.

However, temperatures are expected to drop below 40C (104F) in Doha, with the maximum forecast between 36C to 39C (102F) and the minimum expected to be from 31C to 34C (93F), the MET said.

It added that all of Qatar is expected to see strong winds, blowing dust and a subsequent decrease in visibility today.