Oman, UAE: Adverse weather forecast across both countries through at least March 9

Severe weather is forecast across much of Oman and the UAE through at least March 9. A weather system is bringing showers and isolated thunderstorms across the region as of March 5 and further adverse weather is forecast over the coming days. Strong wind gusts and hail may accompany storms and strong winds may generate rough seas in coastal areas and dust storms in arid parts of the region. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause reduced visibility due to blowing dust.

As of March 5, the Oman Civil Aviation Authority has issued a heavy rain alert over Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahira, Al Wusta, Ash Sharqiyah North, and Ash Sharqiyah South between 16:00 March 5 and 12:00 March 6. Rainfall totals of 2-5 cm (0.8-2 inches) are expected in the affected area, as well as winds gusting up to 65 kph (40 mph) and waves up to 3.5 meters (11 feet) in coastal areas. Further isolated showers and storms are forecast across much of Oman over the coming days.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued orange and yellow weather warnings (the middle and lowest levels on a three-tier scale) for thunderstorms, strong winds, and dust storms over northeastern and central parts of the UAE March 5. Further scattered showers, thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas are forecast across much of the UAE through at least March 9.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located 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 rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible 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 dust levels without rain.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. 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.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancelations at airports in the affected areas. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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.