Oman: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 2

Severe weather is forecast across much of Oman through at least Oct. 2. Thunderstorms are expected over the Al Hajar Mountains and adjacent areas Sept. 30; storms will be accompanied by heavy downpours, strong winds, and possible hail. Isolated rainfall is also expected in coastal and adjoining mountainous areas of Dhofar Governorate. The Civil Aviation Authority's Directorate General of Meteorology has issued warnings for thunderstorms and heavy rainfall over Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Buraymi, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Al Dhahirah, Ash Sharqiyah North, Ash Sharqiyah South, Dhofar, Musandam, and Muscat governorates Sept. 30. Rainfall totals of 1-5 cm (0.4-2 inches) are expected over the Al Hajar mountains and 0.5-1.5 cm (0.2-0.6 inches) over Dhofar Governorate. Further showers and storms are forecast over Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates and the Al Hajar mountains Oct. 1-2. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours and 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 region's arid nature 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 cancellations at airports in the affected areas. Flooding could block regional rail lines, and 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.