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      The prevailing wind is NNW by W with a secondary wind SSE by
E.   Winds up to 20 mph. are rare.  Gusts of over 40 mph. occur
frequently during squally conditions but they seldom exceed 50
mph.

      Weather in Kuwait is greatly influenced by the wind.
Northerly winds bring hot dry conditions in summer and cold dry
weather in winter.   Southerly winds result in less hot but very
humid periods in summer and close warmish weather in winter.
Cloud and rain occur during the winter months and during periods
of southerly wind.   Showers are usually accompanied by a change
in wind direction and it is evident that precipitation is
frequently the result of more moisture laden air from the Indian
Ocean meeting a cool northerly air stream.

      Winds over 20 miles per hour usually raise dust partially or
totally obscuring the sun and modifying the temperature.    The
hottest summer days occur during calm or light northerly winds
when there is no dust or humidity to block the sun's rays.

      The wind direction tends to be seasonal and although there
are variations in the climate from year to year, there is
nevertheless a discernable pattern recognized by Kuwaities who
have spent their lives in the country.

      The following are the traditional seasons of the year in
Kuwait:

      "Suhail"       24th August till 16th October.   The intense
                     heat of summer begins to moderate.   It is
                     said that if the wind blows from the south at
                     the start of the season it will continue in
                     this direction for the whole 52 days.    If
                     from the north, than a north wind will
                     predominate throughout the period.   On 27th
                     of September the length of night and day are
                     equal and on the same day periods of humidity
                     start, continuing for about one week.

      "Wassem'?      16th October till 7th December.   The clouds
                     start to gather and rain may be expected.   If
                     rain falls early than a generally high
                     rainfall may be expected for the season.
                     From November 1st, air conditioning units and
                     fans are no longer needed.  Winter clothing
                     is worn.  Between the 11th and 24th of
                     November a storm may be expected with heavy
                     clouds, wind and rain.

      "Arba'aneiah"  7th December till 15th January.   The
                     beginning of winter "the cold comes running."
                     Period of the longest night 13 hours and 46
                     minutes.


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