The beautiful weather phenomenon experienced by Dhofar every year in summer known as Khareef is the age old pattern of monsoon.
The southwest winds play the significant role but this is also why it is dangerous to approach the Arabian Sea while the winds are active. There are boards that warn people not to approach the sea but mishaps continue as in the case experienced in Hasik, this year.
The Sultanate of Oman is surrounded by the sea on two sides, the Sea of Oman to the Northeast and the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean to the Southeast.
The Arabian Sea brings in the Southwest monsoon winds, which carries moisture from the Indian Ocean because it is situated in the Southwest direction.
While the strong currents makes Mugsayl Beach spectacular with the blow holes, it is important to remember to stay away from the water during the season.
Meteorologist, Mohammed al Mishaiqi from Oman Met Office explained, “First I have to define the monsoon wind which is a prevailing wind traveling from southern hemisphere (High pressure area) to northern hemisphere (low pressure area).
Also the monsoon is enhanced by Somanlian Low Level Jet , and due to the continuous activity of wind blowing over the sea two phenomenon are created - rough sea and upwelling mechanism (cold water come up , warm water sink down).”
He added that when warm wind blows over a relatively cold water near the coasts which cause condensation and formation of low level clouds and fog.
So how long will the sea continue to be rough? ”As long as the wind is blowing over the sea, the sea state will be rough, usually to mid September, Al Mishaiqi replied.
According to Marine Insight, Arabian Sea’s climate is influenced by several factors, including its geographical location, winds, ocean currents and surface temperature of its waters.
It has hot and humid summers and not-so-cold winters. The surface temperature ranges from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius all year round. It becomes warm in summer.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
