Deadly flash floods hit northern Oman

Heavy rainfalls between October 14 and 17, 2015 caused flash floods across northern Oman, media reports. So far, 7 people have been reported dead while 50 successful rescues have been performed across the affected areas.

Flash floods caused by strong downpours last week have battered the areas of Nizwa, Ras Al Hadd and Bahla, Oman. Strong rainstorms have resulted from a low pressure area located to the north of Oman, in combination with a tropical system which was situated over the Arabian Sea at the time, Oman Meteorology Agency (PACA) reported.

Flooding in northern Oman, October 16, 2015. Image credit: @Zulfa_2015

104 mm (4 inches) of rainfall was reported to fall in the city of Ibra, 46.6 mm (1.8 inches) on Ras Al Hadd and 65 mm (2.6 inches) in Bahla on October 16. Izki measured 67 mm (2.6 inches) of precipitation on October 15 while 20.2 mm (0.8 inches) fell in Rustaq and 34 mm (1.3 inches) in Ras Al Hadd at the same time, according to the Oman meteorological data.

Flooding in northern Oman, October 16, 2015. Image credit: @Zulfa_2015

One of the greatest perils during the floods have been the drivers who have been endangering themselves and others while trying to travel the overflown roads during the rainfalls, according to the Royal Oman Police.

7 people got killed in flood related incidents, one of which was a child who drowned after falling into the Wadi Siji dam, Oman Civil Defence reported.

Featured image: Flash flood hits Oman, October 16, 2015. Image credit: @Zulfa_2015