Storms, dust disrupt travel in Kuwait: Flights rerouted, ports temporarily closed

Dubai: Kuwait’s Directorate of Air Navigation activated all necessary safety measures in response to Sunday night’s severe weather, which brought cumulus thunderclouds, powerful winds, and sharply reduced visibility, Director Dawood Al Jarrah confirmed.

Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Jarrah said the department acted in accordance with international aviation safety standards, as wind speeds exceeded 70 km/hr and gusts reached 85 km/hr.

With visibility dropping below 300 metres, two incoming flights from Assiut and Cairo were diverted to Dammam.
An IndiGo flight from Delhi was also rerouted, while another IndiGo flight from Ahmedabad landed safely at Kuwait International Airport at 11:41 pm A Kuwait Airways flight from Dubai managed to land at 11:06 pm, despite the adverse conditions.
Ports suspend operations amid high winds
Simultaneously, the Kuwait Ports Authority (KPA) announced a temporary suspension of operations at Shuwaikh and Shuaiba ports due to the deteriorating weather. Winds exceeding 82 km/h and sharply reduced visibility led to the precautionary measure to safeguard port workers and infrastructure.

Dust storm alert issued in Kuwait
Acting Director of the Meteorological Department Dharar Al-Ali told KUNA that satellite imagery and radar detected a dust storm affecting most parts of the country. “Some automatic monitoring stations recorded winds over 70 km/hr, with gusts exceeding 100 km/hr, reducing visibility to less than 1,000 meters and even to zero in some areas,” he said.
Al Ali projected gradual improvement over the next few hours, though dusty conditions and light rain may persist into Monday.

Public advised to stay cautious
Al Ali warned motorists about hazardous driving conditions, especially on highways, and advised sea-goers to be cautious of waves rising beyond six feet. He urged residents to stay updated via official sources, including the Meteorology Department’s website and social media platforms.