Oman: Response operations ongoing due to flooding in most of the country early Feb. 13

Authorities are responding to flooding across most of Oman as of early Feb. 13. Heavy rainfall the previous day caused flooding across most of the country, with northern Oman the worst affected. Authorities have confirmed three fatalities in the Wadi Bani Ghafir in Rustaq, Al Batinah South Governorate, Feb. 12 due to floodwaters. Emergency crews rescued 108 people from Yanqul in Ad Dhahirah Governorate and one person each from Buraimi in Al Buraimi Governorate and Muscat in Muscat Governorate, and evacuated 118 people from a specialized physical therapy center in Al Batinah North Governorate due to high water levels. Authorities suspended all schools across Oman except for Al Wusta, Dhofar, and Musandam governorates Feb. 12-13.

The Oman Directorate General of Meteorology has warned of heavy rain, hail, and strong winds, which may result in flash flooding across Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Al Buraimi, Al Dakhyliah, Al Dhahirah, Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South, Musandam, and Muscat governorates and the coastal areas of Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates Feb. 13. Red thunderstorm warnings are in place across most of the affected area.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks and on ground already saturated by previous rainfall. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue additional mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services may occur where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Due to the arid nature of the region and poor stormwater management in some urban areas, even minor rainfall accumulations could quickly result in episodes of flash flooding. Flooding is possible in streams and wadis (dry riverbeds). Significant rainfall may be preceded by moderate winds and dust storms, though some areas - particularly desert areas - may experience high levels of dust without rain.

The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Additionally, ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.