Al Hamra records Oman’s highest rainfall at 28mm

  Muscat:  The Wilayat of al Hamra recorded the highest rainfall in Oman at 28mm between August 22 and 24.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR), the rainfall distribution showed that al Hamra received 28mm, the highest total recorded during the three-day period. 

Three other wilayats recorded 19mm each, while several locations received between 14mm and 1mm of rainfall. The figures highlighted the local summer rainfall activity, with the highest accumulations concentrated in areas affected by convective cloud development.

In a weather bulletin posted by Oman Meteorology Office on Tuesday, it said thunderstorms and strong downdraft winds are predicted across several parts of the Sultanate of Oman.

The weather is expected to remain active today, with the Met Office forecasting moderate thunderstorms from around noon over parts of the al Hajar Mountains and neighbouring areas.

The thunderstorms may be accompanied by active downdraft winds, with the possibility of low visibility.

Downdraft winds are also expected over parts of al Wusta and Dhofar, while active winds have been forecast for areas including al Jazir, Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, Sadah, Shalim, the Hallaniyat Islands, Mahout and Masirah.

In Dhofar Governorate, limited rainfall is expected over parts of Rakhyut, Salalah, Dhalkut, Taqah and Mirbat, amid the continuing southwest monsoon conditions.

The latest weather pattern is associated with the development of convective clouds over the Al Hajar Mountains, which can produce local rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly during the afternoon. Rainfall intensity can vary significantly between neighbouring areas, as reflected in the latest recorded totals.

The Met Office urged residents and visitors to exercise caution during thunderstorms, particularly in mountainous areas and near wadis.