Strong northwesterly winds, drop in temperature expected from Thursday: Met

Strong winds are expected in the country from Thursday along with a drop in temperature, the Qatar Met department has said.In a report on social media, the department said fresh to strong northwesterly winds are expected to affect the country - both inshore and offshore - from Thursday until the middle of next week.This will cause blowing dust at times and also lead to a drop in temperatures - along with an enhanced feeling of coldness - especially in the southern and external regions, the forecast says.The marine warning will continue during this period.Meanwhile, Doha and other parts of the country experienced dusty conditions and a drop in visibility on Wednesday. The temperature also soared to 35C on Wednesday, which was recorded in Abu Samra, followed by 34C in Karana, Turayna and Mukaynis, 33C in Sheehaniya and 32C in Jumayliyah.Thursday's detailed forecast says strong winds and poor visibility are expected in inshore, while offshore areas will also see windy conditions along with high seas.The wind (northwesterly) speed may go up to 40 knots offshore and 35 knots inshore, with the sea level rising to 14ft.Dusty conditions will prevail in the early hours, followed by moderate temperature, blowing dust and some clouds at times. It will be relatively cold by night. Visibility, meanwhile, may drop to 2km or less in some places at first.The temperature is expected to range from 18-24C in Doha Thursday, while a low of 15C is likely in Al Khor.