If you are in Qatar this weekend, you should take adequate care as there is likely to be a big dust storm headed this way.

According to the Qatar Met Department’s weather forecast, a dust storm is expected to hit Qatar on Friday, with dusty winds passing over most areas in the country.

Northwesterly winds are expected to blow with speeds between 12 and 22 knots, rising to 28 knots at places inshore. Offshore, winds will blow at speeds between 15 to 25 knots, sometimes reaching up to 35 knots.

حالة الطقس المتوقعة لعطلة نهاية الأسبوع.. مع تمنيات إدارة #أرصاد_قطر للجميع بقضاء إجازة سعيدة ..
Weather forecast for weekend. Wish you a great time#Qatar pic.twitter.com/3np8XLksxA

— أرصاد قطر (@Qatar_Weather) January 3, 2019

The storm is expected to significantly reduce visibility and sharply increase dust levels. Visibility levels are expected to be 5 to 6kms at laces, with it getting reduced to 3kms at some areas.

Northwesterly wind expected to affect the country from the beginning of tomorrow, wind gust expected to reach 28 kt at times may lead to blowing dust especially in open areas,causing a noticeable drop in temperature from Friday evening about 3 to 5 °C compared with previous days. pic.twitter.com/FZreNQG9Fn

— أرصاد قطر (@Qatar_Weather) January 3, 2019

The weather department has advised people to close their windows at home during overnight hours on Thursday and exercise caution while doing outdoor activities late Thursday night and into Friday.