Ministry urges public to be cautious amid dusty weather conditions

Jan 18, 2019

As dusty winds engulf parts of Qatar, The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued an advisory urging the public, particularly those with asthma, other allergies, chest ailments or a recent history of nose or mouth surgery, to guard against direct exposure to dust.

Ministry of Public Health calls to avoid direct exposure to the dust wave in the country, especially the asthma and respiratory diseases patients. #QNA pic.twitter.com/zL5nMWVZnW
— Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) January 17, 2019

Earlier on Thursday, the Qatar Meteorology Department urged the citizens and residents of the country to be wary of strong, dusty winds in most areas, resulting in low horizontal visibility and increased dust density in certain areas, according to T he Gulf Times.

The Qatar Met Department today morning noted that strong winds will continue to blow in and it is imperative that individuals abide by the recommended safety measures.

❗️❗️ Wind speed is ranging between 22-32 kt and the wave height between 9-12 ft and the warning will continue until next week. Please be careful and follow the latest weather updates. #Qatar pic.twitter.com/a5kI5qS6qp
— أرصاد قطر (@Qatar_Weather) January 18, 2019

While the weather conditions are projected to remain unchanged for a while, the MoPH has asked the public to take certain precautionary measures to ward off any possible health risks.

❗ Widespread dust is affecting the country with strong Northwesterly wind causing visibility to drop below 1 km in most areas. Please take extra care and follow attached safety tips as dusty conditions expected to continue until night time. #Qatar pic.twitter.com/vPM4i9tUyx
— أرصاد قطر (@Qatar_Weather) January 17, 2019

Among other cautionary measures, the advisory has placed emphasis on the use of protective masks and wet paper towels to obstruct potentially harmful dust particles from entering the nose or mouth that may trigger allergies and other dust-related sensitivities.

Individuals are encouraged to wash their face, nose and mouth at regular intervals to avert the risk of dust particles making their way to the lungs. Additionally, to curb the onset of eye infections, individuals are asked to avoid rubbing their eyes.

In the case that someone experiences shortness of breath, they are advised to visit the nearest emergency department or if the emergence of allergy symptoms is noticed, they are guided approach the nearest health center.

As visibility is still expected to be low in a few areas, motorists are advised to drive responsibly while keeping their car windows closed with the use of air conditioner at a suitable temperature. Furthermore, it is recommended that houses, particularly bedrooms, blankets and mattresses are cleaned frequently, reported The Peninsula Qatar.

Motorists are urged to be cautious as dusty weather to continue in different parts of the country in coming hours. @Qatar_Weather expects dust density to lessen gradually by night. #MoIQatar.
— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) January 17, 2019

Alternate shifts and the use of protective masks are recommended to those who work in the field. Moreover, individuals who are at the higher risk of developing allergic reactions to dust are advised to use prescribed medications even if allergy symptoms have not been observed as such.

Furthermore, parents are advised to be particularly vigilant in such weather conditions and protect themselves and their children from being affected.

How has the weather impacted you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.