Bahrain, Qatar: Adverse weather forecast across the region in both countries through at least Nov. 21

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Bahrain and Qatar through at least Nov. 21. Storms will likely be accompanied by strong wind gusts, which may generate dust storms and rough sea conditions. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

The Meteorological Directorate of Bahrain has issued a weather alert warning that thundery showers will affect the kingdom Nov. 20, with strong winds also generating rough sea conditions. Winds gusting up to 65 kph and waves up to 2.4 meters (8 feet) are possible. Further scattered rainfall is forecast Nov. 21.

Qatar's Department of Meteorology issued a weather bulletin Nov. 18 warning of rainfall of varying intensity over the coming week, with the peak of the adverse conditions likely Nov. 20. Rain may be thundery at times and strong winds are also forecast, which may generate dust storms in arid areas and rough seas in coastal area.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities may issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, and/or landslides impact utility networks.

Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the affected area. Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.