Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast across Oman, flash flood risk expected

Muscat– Several governorates across the Sultanate of Oman are experiencing widespread cloud cover today, with the formation of thunderstorm cells over the governorates of Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, Al Wusta Governorate, and Al Dhahirah Governorate.

These thunder cells are expected to extend and move northeast toward the Al Hajar Mountains over the coming hours. As a result, nearby areas are likely to experience rainfall of varying intensity.

Mohammed bin Ali Al-Mashaikhi, a meteorologist at the Civil Aviation Authority, stated that rainfall of varying intensity is expected across several regions, including Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, and North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, as well as parts of the Al Hajar range extending into North Al Batinah Governorate, South Al Batinah Governorate, and Muscat.

He added that tomorrow, multiple governorates—including Muscat Governorate, Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, North and South Al Sharqiyah, Al Batinah (north and south), Musandam Governorate, Al Buraimi Governorate, and Al Wusta—are expected to witness rainfall ranging from moderate to very heavy. These conditions may be accompanied by hail, leading to active wadis and possible flash flooding.

Additionally, strong downdrafts with wind speeds between 15 and 50 knots are expected, along with reduced horizontal visibility that may occasionally drop to near zero during intense rainfall.

Meanwhile, Dhofar Governorate is also forecast to receive scattered rainfall, which may at times be accompanied by thunderstorms.