How dangerous is Hikaa and how can you protect yourself?

Oman Tuesday 24/September/2019 10:31 AM
By: Times News Service
How dangerous is Hikaa and how can you protect yourself?

Muscat: Oman's National Emergency Management Centre has spoken out about the strength of cyclone Hikaa and how people in South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta should prepare themselves to stay safe.
Read here: Hikaa develops into cyclone
The expected effects include up to 80 mm of rain in some areas, as well as seawater moving inland accompanied by heavy winds which may uproot trees or electricity posts.

A statement by the centre read: "The expected effects of Hikaa include the likelihood of heavy rains reaching 80 mm in some areas leading to wadis running and water levels rising."

"There will also be heavy winds, which may reach up tp 80-100 kilometers per hour. These may effect electricity poles, trees, and unstable structures. Seawaves will rise to between 4-6 metres, which could prove dangerous to those who go into the ocean or fishermen and fishing vessels," the statement added.

"The expected effects may harm basic infrastructure facilities, which may lead to electricity, water supply, or communications channels being cut off."
Also read: Royal Oman Police warns against entering ocean in two governorates
The centre also laid out a number of instructions for people living in affected areas, detailing how they can keep themselves safe.

"Stay inside your home unless there is an evacuation order, and do not leave unless absolutely necessary. If you must leave, avoid unsafe roads and do not cross wadis. You must also avoid low lying areas and places where wadis pass, and move your valuables, including boats and vehicles, to higher areas so that the water cannot reach them. Stay away from electrical connections and structures."

"Listen to official instructions in order to keep you and your family safe," the statement added.
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