Doha braces for thundery rain and gusty winds through Tuesday morning
The Department of Meteorology has issued a weather warning for Doha, with thundery rain expected offshore tonight. Conditions will remain unsettled both inshore and offshore until Tuesday morning, bringing reduced visibility and gusty winds.
Until 6am on Tuesday, inshore areas will see scattered clouds to partly cloudy skies, with a chance of scattered rain. Winds will start as northeasterly to southeasterly at 5 to 15 knots before shifting to northwesterly by late night, reaching 8 to 18 knots. Sea levels inshore will stay between 1 to 3 feet but may rise to 2 to 5 feet during heavy downpours. Visibility will range from 4 to 9 kilometres, dropping to 3 kilometres or less when thundery rain occurs.
Offshore, similar cloud patterns will persist, with scattered rain that could turn thundery. Winds will begin as southeasterly to easterly at 5 to 15 knots, then switch to northwesterly by late night, gusting up to 27 knots during storms. Sea heights offshore will be 2 to 4 feet, potentially climbing to 3 to 8 feet in rough conditions. Visibility will mirror inshore levels, falling sharply when thunderstorms hit. This forecast aligns with recent trends in Doha's spring weather. Over the past five years, the region has experienced more intense thunderstorms, and the current prediction for March 16-17, 2026, includes possible afternoon storms with heavy rain and strong winds.
The weather system will bring strong winds, high seas, and reduced visibility, particularly during thundery rain. Residents and mariners are advised to stay updated on further warnings as conditions develop.
