Oman, UAE: Adverse weather forecast across both countries through at least April 17

Severe weather will continue across much of Oman and the UAE through at least April 17. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have been affecting the region in recent days, with flood impacts reported, particularly in Oman; further showers and storms are forecast. Strong wind gusts and hail may accompany storms; 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 April 15, authorities have reported at least 13 flood-related fatalities in Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate after several vehicles were swept away by floodwaters; at least three others remain missing and dozens of other people have been rescued by emergency services. Around 1,200 people were evacuated from a school in Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate. Schools have been closed across Ad Dakhiliyah, Ash Sharqiyah North, Ash Sharqiyah South, and Muscat governorates.

The Oman Civil Aviation Authority has forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across most of the country April 15. Strong winds may cause dust storms in arid parts of the country and rough seas are expected in coastal areas. Further showers and storms are expected over much of the country through at least April 16.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast showers and storms over much of the UAE April 15-16, persisting in northern and eastern regions through at least early April 17. Strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Strong winds may cause dust storms in arid parts of the country and rough seas are expected in coastal areas. Yellow warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) for dust storms and strong winds have been issued for western interior regions April 15.

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.