Floods in northern Oman claim three lives, cause widespread evacuations

Heavy rains affecting Oman over the past couple of days caused significant disruption and widespread floods in which at least 3 people lost their lives. Over 200 individuals have been evacuated or rescued, with schools suspending classes in affected areas. The Ministry of Health has also rescheduled 25 000 appointments in light of the flooding.

Oman has been experiencing heavy rainfall, particularly affecting the north of the country, with floods leading to at least three fatalities in the Rustaq Town area of Al Batinah South Governorate on February 12, 2024. The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has been actively conducting rescue operations, saving 108 people in Ad Dhahirah Governorate and evacuating 118 individuals from Al Batinah North Governorate.

The intense weather conditions prompted the suspension of studies in government, private, and international schools across all governorates, excluding Dhofar, Musandam, and Al Wusta, with classes expected to resume on Wednesday. The severe weather has also led to the rescheduling of over 25 000 health appointments, emphasizing the widespread impact of the storms.

Flash floods have been reported in various parts of Oman, with the CDAA recovering bodies of three children swept away in Rustaq and conducting numerous rescues, including individuals stranded in vehicles or specialized centers.

ارتفع عدد الوفيات جراء الفيضانات في #عمان الى 7 اشخاص 🇴🇲⚠️
رحمهم الله جميعا 🤲#منخفض_الوَبل #منخفض_جوي #منخفض_المزر #Oman pic.twitter.com/3y9oE05bx1

— طقس_العالم ⚡️ (@Arab_Storms) February 13, 2024

السيول في سوق #مطرح الان #منخفض_الوَبل
عمان 🇴🇲 #Oman
pic.twitter.com/xOeQMBEec2

— طقس_العالم ⚡️ (@Arab_Storms) February 12, 2024

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources highlighted that the Wilayat of Dibba in Musandam Governorate received the highest rainfall, measuring 140 mm (5.5 inches).

The meteorological department forecasts continued heavy rain, hail, and strong winds over north-eastern Oman for the next 24 hours, raising concerns about potential flash floods. Authorities, including the Civil Aviation Authority, have issued warnings urging citizens and residents to exercise caution, avoid crossing valleys, and stay away from low-lying areas and the sea during this period.

References:

¹ Three dead, over 100 rescued in rains in Oman – Times of Oman – February 12, 2024

Featured image credit: Arab Storms (stillshot)