The Department of Meteorology has issued a marine warning in effect from Wednesday through the weekend. Residents and seagoers are urged to avoid marine activities during this period due to high waves expected across Qatar.
Qatar’s Department of Meteorology has issued a marine warning for Wednesday, 20 May 2026, forecasting strong winds and high seas offshore starting from noon, with strong winds also expected inshore during the daytime. The warning is set to remain in effect through the weekend.
According to the department’s daily weather report, Qatar will be affected by fresh to strong northwesterly winds throughout the day, which may cause blowing dust and reduced horizontal visibility in some areas.
Wind and sea conditions
| Wind and Sea Characteristics | Normal Conditions | Alarming Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Inshore winds | 12–22 kts | Gusting to 30 kts |
| Offshore winds | 12–22 kts | Gusting to 32 kts |
| Wave heights | 3–6 ft | Up to 9 ft offshore |
| Warning duration | Through weekend | From Wed noon onwards |
Inshore, winds will begin as southwesterly at under 10 knots before shifting to northwesterly at 12–22 knots, with gusts reaching up to 30 knots during the day. Offshore, winds will similarly veer northwesterly, reaching 12–22 knots and gusting up to 32 knots from noon onward.
Inshore conditions are expected to be hot during the day, with slight to blowing dust possible, moderating by night. Offshore conditions are forecast to remain otherwise fine, aside from the wind and wave activity.
Public advisory
Authorities have strongly advised the public to avoid all marine and sea activities during the warning period. Those who must be at sea are encouraged to exercise extreme caution and closely monitor updates from the Qatar Meteorology Department.
Residents in inland areas should also be prepared for dusty, low-visibility conditions during windy periods.
