Kuwait braces for dust storms and intense heat through Saturday

Director of the Meteorology Department, Dharar Al-Ali, has warned that Kuwait will be affected by strong, dust-raising winds starting Tuesday, which will persist until Saturday. These winds are expected to reduce horizontal visibility to less than 1,000 meters in some areas, especially in open and desert regions.

Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Ali explained that the country is under the influence of an extension of the Indian monsoon depression. This weather system is bringing with it a hot, dry air mass, accompanied by moderate to strong northwesterly winds blowing at speeds ranging from 20 to 60 kilometers per hour.

These winds are expected to stir up dust, severely reducing visibility. The phenomenon will also cause sea waves to rise to more than six feet, prompting warnings for those planning marine activities.

Al-Ali noted that despite the prevailing heat, the dust-laden winds will lead to a slight drop in maximum temperatures by about 4 to 6 degrees Celsius. Daytime conditions will remain hot and dusty, while nights will range from hot to warm, with dust gradually settling in the evening.

Forecasts indicate maximum temperatures will hover between 43°C and 46°C, while minimum temperatures will remain between 30°C and 33°C.

The Meteorology Department is advising motorists to exercise extreme caution on highways due to the risk of sudden and reduced visibility. Beachgoers are also urged to stay alert to rough sea conditions. In addition, individuals with asthma or respiratory allergies are strongly advised to wear protective masks when venturing outdoors.

As Kuwait enters the peak of summer, residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of intense heat and unstable weather conditions.