A new low pressure system will cause a stir in Qatar’s weather over the next few days, according to local forecasters.

Expect conditions to be windy and rainy from now through Tuesday. The precipitation will range from scattered showers to heavy thunderstorms, the Qatar Meteorology Department (MET) said.

Windspeeds will also pick up today, reducing visibility as the dust blows. The MET has warned residents to avoid sea activities during this time.

Spring ahead

Inclement weather is a common sight during this time of the year, as Qatar begins the transition from winter to spring, a period called Al Sarayat.

According to the MET, this period goes from March 20 to mid-May. It is charactered by weather fluctuations, including warm and cold fronts, as well as dry and hot winds.

The season is also associated with “severe weather such as violent lightning strikes, strong winds, heavy rain and dust,” forecasters added.

In its most recent climate outlook, the MET forecast rainy conditions for the next three weeks. It said most of this rain will affect the western and northern parts of Qatar.

It added that a shamal (sandstorm) could hit the country in mid-April.

Thoughts?