Oman, UAE: Adverse weather forecast across both countries through at least May 3

Severe weather is forecast across much of Oman and the UAE through at least May 3. A weather system is forecast to bring showers and isolated thunderstorms across the region over the coming days, with the peak of the severe weather likely May 2-3. 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 April 29, the Oman Civil Aviation Authority has issued a heavy rain alert for Al Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Batinah, North Al Batinah, and Musandam governorates due to thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall of varying intensity. 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). Further isolated showers and storms are forecast over the Al Hajar mountains and adjoining areas extending to the Oman Sea coast April 30-May 1, as well as isolated showers in coastal areas of Dhofar Governorate. Cloud and fog are expected in coastal areas and dust storms are possible in arid parts of the region.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued yellow weather warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) for thunderstorms, rainfall, strong winds, and dust storms over eastern parts of the UAE April 29. Further scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast over eastern regions early April 30 before spreading to central and western regions by the afternoon. Isolated showers are expected in some areas May 1 and thunderstorms and rainfall of varying intensity are forecast across the country May 2-3. Strong winds over the coming days will likely generate rough seas in coastal areas and dust storms in arid parts of the region.

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.