Weather Alert: Potential depression from Arabian Sea to impact Oman

Muscat: The National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center has issued a weather alert indicating that the Sultanate of Oman could be affected by a depression originating from the Arabian Sea. This weather system is expected to impact the region from the evening of Monday, August 5, 2024, through Wednesday, August 7, 2024.

According to report No. 1 from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the depression is likely to bring increased cloud cover and scattered rainfall across most governorates of Oman. Rainfall may occur at times, particularly in the governorates of South Al Batinah, Al Dakhiliyah, Muscat, North Al Batinah, Al Dhahirah, Al Buraimi, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Sharqiyah, and Musandam.

Forecast Details by Day:

    Monday and Tuesday Evening (August 5-6): Expect widespread cloud formation over most governorates. Cumulus clouds are likely to develop in the Hajar Mountains and surrounding areas around noon and evening. Rainfall will vary in intensity, with thundery conditions possible in South Al Batinah, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Sharqiyah, North Al Batinah, Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, and parts of Al Dhahirah, Al Buraimi, Al Wusta, and Musandam.

Heavy rainfall, ranging from 25 to 50 mm, is anticipated to be concentrated in South Al Batinah, Al Dakhiliyah, Muscat, and North Al Batinah. This may result in flooding in reefs and some valleys. Winds could be strong, ranging from 15 to 35 knots (28 to 65 km/h), potentially causing unstable materials to be displaced and reducing horizontal visibility during thunderstorms and dust storms. Coastal areas along the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Sea could experience rough waves reaching up to four meters.

    Wednesday, August 7: Cloud formation and scattered rain are expected to continue, with thundery conditions possible along the coasts of South Al Batinah, North Al Batinah, Muscat, and South Al Sharqiyah. Cumulus clouds may form over the Hajar Mountains and nearby areas during the noon and evening hours. Rainfall amounts could range from 20 to 40 mm, with similar flooding risks for reefs and valleys. Wind speeds will remain between 15 and 35 knots (28 to 65 km/h), with reduced visibility and potential dust storms. Coastal waters may continue to experience rough waves up to four meters in height.

Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution during this period of unsettled weather.