Freak weather mystery - Bahrain

WEATHER conditions in Bahrain over the last two days are highly unusual for this time of the year, according to meteorology officials. The high-velocity north-westerly, "40-day winds" normally begin in early June and continue till the middle of July, said Civil Aviation Affairs (CAA) Meteorology assistant under-secretary Abdul Majeed Isa.

"We are experiencing these conditions because of a low pressure area over India and Pakistan," he told the GDN.

"They begin as soon as the monsoon season begins to set in in the Indian sub-continent."

Mr Isa said it was also unusual for the monsoons to set in so early.

"This is very unusual and experts all over the region have nothing else to blame than global warming and climate change," he said.

The official said it was not, however, a matter of concern.

"It is unusual now, but if it happens over and over again, it will affect the weather patterns in this part of the world," said Mr Isa.

Strong surface winds, with average speeds of between 24 and 25 knots have been reported in Bahrain since Monday night with gushes of wind sometimes reaching between 34 and 36 knots.

"This is expected to continue over the next few days and should subside by Friday," said Mr Isa.

He said people should take care in the high velocity winds and warned fishermen not to venture out into the sea unless necessary.

"Care should be taken to prevent any mishaps," said Mr Isa.

He said the winds were leading to rising sands in several places, which was causing discomfort to workers and motorists.