(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Slippery roads and water-logging following heavy rains and gusty winds yesterday slowed down traffic, leading congestion on roads.
The wet conditions brought traffic to a standstill in most parts of Doha, with motorists forced to manoeuvre through water.
Most roads in the Industrial Area were affected and some areas were flooded, said a Karwa taxi driver who identified himself as Abdullah.
"I have two regular clients to pick up in the Industrial Area in the morning and bring them to their work place in Doha.
"Usually, we are always on time but today we were late because of rain and water-logging.
"It was a hassle to get to their homes and another to drive back to Doha with traffic moving very slowly."
He said there were minor accidents, mostly because motorists could not control their vehicles on the slippery roads. These accidents also delayed traffic.
Authorities used social networks to warn people to take precautions while driving as rains, strong winds hit different parts of the country.
"It takes longer to apply the brake on wet roads than on dry roads. Keep a little more than usual space between the vehicles," the Ministry of Interior posted on its English Tweeter account.
More messages were posted on the ministry's Arabic Tweeter account, including urging motorists to co-operate with traffic police to prevent accidents and congestion on the roads.
The ministry also advised motorists to maintain space between cars, make them more visible by turning on head and tail lights, check the wipers and replace them if old, check that tyres have enough tread, not be distracted by mobile phones, wear the seat belt, not to speed and other rules.
According to an official from the Meteorological Department, there were strong winds and high waves in the sea with winds blowing from 12-22 knots to up to 30 in some areas along the sea.
He said there was poor visibility in some areas due to the fog in the morning.
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