Oman weather alert: Holiday announced for employees, schools due to heavy rain

Image credit: Getty Images

Heavy rains are expected across most regions of Oman, with the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Centre forecasting adverse weather conditions in the country over the next few days.

According to the forecast, Muscat and its surrounding regions are likely to experience significant disruptions in weather patterns, particularly on Monday and Tuesday.

The approaching low-pressure system is expected to bring heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, posing potential risks to residents and infrastructure across the area.

Oman Meteorology has issued Alert No. 1 in anticipation of heavy rain and associated weather conditions across several governorates of the country.

Heavy rain is expected to occur on Monday from 2 pm until 1 am, with precipitation levels potentially exceeding 60 mm.

Read: UAE weather: Work from home, remote learning extended to Feb 13

Affected governorates in Oman

• • Musandam
  • North Al Batinah
  • Al Buraimi
  • South Al Batinah
  • Al Dakhiliyah
  • Al Dhahirah

This significant rainfall may induce downdraft winds ranging between 15-35 knots, contributing to reduced horizontal visibility, particularly due to dust rising during thunderstorms.

Additionally, there are possibilities of hail and overflowing valleys exacerbating the weather conditions.

Authorities have urged citizens and residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of inclement weather.

Precautionary measures:

In light of the forecasted weather conditions, school classes have been suspended in all public, private, and international schools across affected governorates, excluding Al Wusta and Dhofar, for Monday, February 12.

“Due to weather conditions, it is decided to suspend classes tomorrow, Monday, in all public, private, and international schools in all governorates of Oman, except for Al Wusta and Dhofar. Classes will resume on Tuesday, February 13, 2024,” read the statement from Oman Meteorology.

Residents and travelers are advised to exercise caution, remain indoors whenever possible, and avoid unnecessary travel during this period of heightened weather activity.

The anticipated heavy rainfall raises concerns for localised flooding in low-lying areas. Motorists are advised to exercise caution while driving and avoid areas prone to flooding.

Read: UAE: Flexible working for private sector, remote learning for schools amid weather warnings