Doha, Qatar – Residents of Qatar are preparing for a period of unsettled weather in Qatar as the Qatar Meteorology Department forecasts cold, windy conditions and potential rainfall across the country from January 22-24, 2026. The forecast calls for a significant temperature drop and increased wind speeds, particularly during nighttime hours. This shift in weather patterns follows a relatively mild winter season thus far.
The inclement weather is expected to begin on Thursday, January 22nd, and continue through Saturday, January 24th, impacting daily life and potentially disrupting outdoor activities. The Qatar Meteorology Department advises citizens and residents to stay updated on the latest forecasts and take necessary precautions. Sea conditions are also expected to deteriorate, posing risks to maritime activities.
Detailed Forecast for the Weekend Weather in Qatar
The initial phase of the weather system, starting Thursday, will bring slightly dusty conditions and strengthening northwesterly winds. These winds are predicted to reach speeds of 10-20 knots, with gusts potentially peaking at 28 knots throughout the day. Temperatures will begin to fall, becoming noticeably colder overnight.
Friday is anticipated to be relatively cold during the daytime, with continued cloud cover. The evenings will likely be colder still, potentially reaching very cold temperatures in certain areas of the country. This cooling trend is due to an influx of cooler air masses from the north, according to meteorological analysis.
Saturday will see a continuation of cloudy skies, with an increased chance of scattered showers, particularly in the northern regions of Qatar. A shift in wind direction to southeasterly, at 5-15 knots, is also expected. This change could influence the distribution of any rainfall.
Temperature and Sea Conditions
Over the course of the weekend, temperatures are expected to range from a minimum of 12°C to a maximum of 22°C. This represents a substantial decrease compared to recent daytime highs. Residents should prepare for these cooler temperatures, especially when planning outdoor activities.
The sea height is currently predicted to be between 2 and 4 feet. However, the Qatar Meteorology Department warns that these conditions could worsen late Saturday night, with waves potentially rising to 8 feet. This poses a hazard to smaller vessels and recreational marine activities. The department has issued an advisory for seafarers to exercise caution.
The approaching weather system is linked to a broader pattern of atmospheric instability across the region. Experts suggest that a low-pressure system developing over the Mediterranean Sea is influencing the weather in the Arabian Gulf. This is a typical pattern for winter months, bringing occasional periods of cooler temperatures and rainfall to Qatar.
The potential for rain is a welcome development, as Qatar has experienced relatively dry conditions in recent months. However, increased rainfall can also lead to localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and preparing for potential disruptions. Qatar’s climate is generally arid, making even small amounts of rainfall significant.
The Ministry of Interior has not yet issued specific warnings regarding road conditions, but residents are advised to drive cautiously, especially during periods of heavy rain or strong winds. Reduced visibility due to dust and cloud cover is also a concern. Staying informed about the latest weather forecast is crucial for safe travel.
Looking ahead, the Qatar Meteorology Department will continue to monitor the development of this weather system and provide updated forecasts as needed. The accuracy of the long-range forecast remains subject to change, and residents should rely on official updates for the most current information. Further analysis of the system’s trajectory will be available in the coming days, potentially refining the predicted intensity and duration of the cold and wet conditions.
The department plans to issue more detailed hourly forecasts on its website and social media channels. It is recommended to check these sources regularly for the latest developments. The situation will be reassessed on Sunday, January 25th, to determine if any further advisories are necessary.
Ministry of Municipality and Environment resources are available for preparing for inclement weather.
Qatar Airways has not yet announced any flight disruptions, but passengers are advised to check their flight status before traveling to the airport.
