Heavy rains in governorates as low pressure gains momentum

Due to the expected heavy thundershowers associated with downdraft, fresh winds and hail starting from this afternoon until Wednesday over the governorates of Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) advices all to take precautions during thundershowers, avoid crossing wadis and low-laying areas, as well as avoid venturing into the sea during alert period.

Expected precipitation will be ranging from 20 mm to 50 mm which will cause flash floods and varying intensity of rainfall over the northern governorates of Oman.

Meanwhile, wadis across the governorates flowed with intense strength on Tuesday as the low pressure gained momentum. The low pressure system also brought in cool temperatures across the governorates.

By 7 pm on Tuesday, the governorates of Al Dhahirah, North Al Batinah, South Al Batinah, the northern parts of Al Wusta Governorate, and the desert areas of the Dhofar Governorate were witnessing rain of varying intensity, accompanied by active winds, and hailstones.

Thunderstorms were also reported from areas of Muscat Governorate and Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, later extending to include North Al Sharqiyah and South Al Sharqiyah governorates.

According to weather forecaster, Mohammed al Madhani from Oman Met Office, clouds continued to move on the coasts of the governorates of South Al Batinah, Muscat, and parts of Al Dakhiliyah, rain of varying intensity was reported from parts of the governorates of South Al Batinah and Muscat.

Speaking to the Observer, he said, “On the weekend the Sultanate of Oman is going to be influenced by a second low pressure system that could produce more rain. We request the public not to cross wadis.”

The Royal Oman Police has requested public to avoid driving in windy conditions.

“Avoid driving in windy conditions and unstable weather conditions except for emergency situations,” they stated.

With warnings and advises, motorists continued to challenge flowing wadis. Driving through a hail storm can also be tricky warned road safety experts.

In Nakhal, water from the wadi took over the road flowing through the market.