Oman, UAE: Weather-related disruptions ongoing across both countries as of April 17 /update 1

Disruptions to transport, utilities, and other services are ongoing across parts of Oman and the UAE as of April 17 following severe weather across the region in recent days. Parts of the UAE recorded the heaviest rainfall since records began April 16 as a deep depression passed over the region, with nearly 25 cm (10 inches) of rainfall recorded in Khatm al-Shakla in al-Ain Emirate. The severe weather is ongoing across parts of the UAE on April 17, and another round of heavy rain and thunderstorms is expected over parts of western Oman in the coming days.

As of April 17, authorities have reported at least 20 flood-related fatalities across Oman, and dozens of other people have been rescued by emergency services, with the worst affected areas in Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate. Around 1,400 people have been evacuated as a precaution and several roads are impassable due to floodwaters. Schools remain closed across Ad Dakhiliyah, Ash Sharqiyah North, Ash Sharqiyah South, and Muscat governorates through at least April 18, and government offices have been closed in recent days due to the severe weather.

The Oman Civil Aviation Authority has issued a weather report advising of rainfall of variable intensity accompanied by thunderstorms over Dhofar Governorate and coastal areas of Al Wusta Governorate April 17-19. Strong winds, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 1-4 cm (0.4-1.6 inches) are expected during storms, and heavy downpours could trigger flooding in the affected areas. A weather alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for Dhofar Governorate through late April 17.

Heavy rainfall and storms have caused widespread disruptions across parts of the UAE, with the peak of the severe weather occurring April 16. One fatality was reported in Ras Al Khaimah Emirate after a vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. Flight disruptions have been ongoing across some of UAE's major airports amid the heavy downpours. Dubai International Airport (DXB) has been experiencing severe delays, and a number of inbound flights to the airport have been diverted April 16-17. Despite improving weather conditions, airport officials and the airline Emirates (EK) are advising passengers not to travel to DXB through at least midnight April 17 as check-in for all flights remains suspended. Those transiting DXB will still be processed; however, travelers are being advised to expect significant delays. Air Arabia (G9) has also advised that all flights have been canceled or rescheduled at Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) April 17, and check-in remains suspended through early April 18. Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi has advised travelers that the airport remains fully operational as of April 17.

The severe weather also caused widespread overland transport disruption across parts of the UAE due to flooded roads. Severe disruptions were also reported on the Dubai metro system on April 16; services largely resumed normal operations on April 17, but some stations remain closed. Power outages, disruptions to water supply, and internet outages have been reported in some affected areas. Schools and government offices are operating remotely across Sharjah Emirate through at least April 18.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM) is maintaining yellow warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) for rainfall, thunderstorms, dust storms, and strong winds across northeastern areas of the UAE on April 17. Calmer conditions are expected to prevail across much of the UAE April 18-21; however, lingering disruptions are expected in areas impacted by the recent adverse weather.

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

Further heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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.