Oman, UAE: Weather-related disruptions ongoing across both countries as of April 19 /update 2

Disruptions to transport, utilities, and other services are ongoing across parts of Oman and the UAE as of April 19 following severe weather across the region in recent days. Parts of the UAE recorded the heaviest rainfall on April 16 since records began 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. Generally, calmer weather conditions are forecast across the region over the coming days, with some isolated showers, before another low-pressure system is expected to bring further adverse weather conditions April 23-25.

As of April 19, authorities have reported at least 21 flood-related fatalities across Oman, and dozens of other people have been rescued by emergency services. The worst-affected areas are in Ash Sharqiyah North Governorate. Around 1,600 people have been evacuated as a precaution, and several roads are impassable due to floodwaters. Schools and government offices have been suspended across much of the country due to the severe weather.

The Oman Civil Aviation Authority has forecast isolated rainfall and thunderstorms are likely to occur over Dhofar Governorate and coastal areas of Al Wusta Governorate April 19-21. Strong winds, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Further isolated showers are possible in northern regions April 21. Another area of low-pressure is expected to move over the region April 23-25, bringing further adverse weather.

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 in recent days after the airport was severely affected by flooding. As of April 19, Emirates airline (EK) suspended check-in for all customers on their network with onward connections through Dubai through early April 20. Emirates had previously suspended check-in for all flights from DXB and advised travelers not to come to the airport April 17-18; departure flights are now resuming but inbound flights are being limited. Further disruptions are likely at DXB over the coming days as airlines work to clear the backlog of flights. Air Arabia (G9) also advised that all flights were canceled or rescheduled at Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) and check-in services were suspended April 16-17 before resuming operations early April 18; lingering disruptions are likely at SHJ over the coming days.

The severe weather also caused widespread overland transport disruption across parts of the UAE due to flooded roads; several roads remain inundated as of April 19. Severe disruptions were also reported on the Dubai metro system April 16 and some stations of the Green Line remain closed. Power outages, disruptions to water supply, and internet outages have been reported in some affected areas. Schools and government offices were operating remotely across much of the country as of April 19.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has forecast generally fair conditions across much of the country April 19-22, with some light rainfall possible in mountainous regions April 20 and western regions April 21. Moderate-to-light rainfall is expected across the country from April 23.

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). Moderate winds and dust storms may precede significant rainfall, 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.