Oman: Adverse weather forecast to continue across much of the country through at least Oct. 18 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast to continue across much of Oman through at least Oct. 18. A low-pressure system emanating from the Arabian Sea has brought widespread rainfall and associated flooding to parts of the country in recent days. Authorities have carried out dozens of rescue operations amid the flooding, with Ash Sharqiyah South and Muscat the worst affected governorates. Further showers and storms are expected across parts of the country Oct. 17, before conditions gradually improve from Oct. 18. The Civil Aviation Authority's Directorate General of Meteorology has issued a weather alert for thunderstorms and rainfall of varying intensity over parts of Ad Dakhiliyah, Ad Dhahirah, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Ash Sharqiyah North, and Dhofar governorates Oct. 17. Rainfall totals of 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches) are expected in the affected areas and may result in flash flooding, especially in wadis (dry riverbeds). Winds gusting up to 56 kph (35 mph) are also expected and may generate dust storms in arid areas. Isolated rainfall is forecast across much of the country, and heavy fog is possible in places. Authorities may 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. Moderate winds and dust storms may precede significant rainfall, though some areas, particularly deserts, 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.