Strong winds to sweep across Oman, dust alert issued

Muscat: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued a weather alert on active northwesterly to northerly winds expected to affect most governorates of the Sultanate of Oman starting from Sunday evening, February 15, 2026, and continuing for several days.

The authority said the wind activity is likely to result in rough sea conditions along Oman’s coasts, with wave heights reaching up to three metres. Seafarers and those visiting coastal areas have been advised to exercise caution during this period.

The strong winds are also expected to raise dust and sand over desert and open areas, leading to reduced horizontal visibility, particularly in exposed regions.

In a related advisory, the National Multi Hazard Early Warning Centre issued a dust alert effective from 8:00 am on February 16, 2026, until 7:00 pm the same day. The alert covers desert and open areas in Al Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, and parts of North and South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta governorates.

The warning indicates a possible drop in horizontal visibility to less than 1,000 metres, with limited impact on daily activities and movement expected in affected areas. Residents have been advised to follow updates on weather developments and to wear masks to avoid inhaling dust particles.

In addition to the windy conditions, the CAA noted that a relative drop in temperatures is anticipated across the Sultanate as the system progresses. Meteorological data showed that Barka recorded the highest temperature in the last 24 hours at 34.4 degrees Celsius, reflecting generally warm conditions prior to the expected temperature decline.