What predominant meteorological factor causes the 'Shamal' winds in Qatar during winter and early summer, and what are its direct environmental consequences?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Strong northwesterly winds driven by Mediterranean-Gulf pressure gradients
- Step 1: The Shamal is a prominent northwesterly wind system affecting the Persian Gulf region.
- Step 2: It is generated by steep atmospheric pressure gradients between migrating Mediterranean high-pressure systems and thermal lows over southern Iran and Arabia.
- Step 3: In Qatar, the Shamal triggers severe dust storms, rough seas, reduced visibility, and sudden temperature drops.
Answer
Strong northwesterly winds driven by Mediterranean-Gulf pressure gradients.
Why not the others: The Kaus is a humid southeasterly wind, not the Shamal; the Siberian high does not control the Gulf coast; thunderstorm outflows are brief local events.
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