Adventure tourism: Risks of unstable weather

As rainfall brings relief from Oman’s intense heat, the cooler, cloudier conditions may tempt adventure enthusiasts to head for mountain trails, wadis and the sea. However, what appears to be ideal weather for outdoor activities can quickly become dangerous when thunderstorms, strong winds, hail and flash floods develop.
From hikers and mountain climbers to divers, kayakers and participants in sea tours, adventurers are being urged to reconsider their plans during the current unstable weather conditions, as sudden changes can turn recreational outings into life-threatening situations.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has warned adventure-tourism companies, individuals and residents to follow weather bulletins issued by the Civil Aviation Authority. It has also stressed the importance of avoiding the organisation or participation in adventure-tourism activities in governorates affected by the weather system throughout its duration, in the interest of public safety.
The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority has also urged the public to exercise utmost caution amid rainfall in several areas, avoid crossing wadis and stay away from their channels and low-lying areas. The authority has reminded the public to follow official weather alerts and contact emergency services on 9991 when necessary.
Despite the risks, mountain trails that have gained popularity on social media continue to attract attention. Among them is the Quraiha summit trail in Al Amerat, which has drawn renewed interest following the installation of a flagpole at its summit, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
However, exposed mountain summits can be particularly dangerous during thunderstorms, when lightning strikes, strong winds and slippery surfaces increase the risk of injury. In wadis, heavy rainfall can trigger sudden flooding even when conditions appear relatively calm nearby.
Sea-based activities also require caution. Cloudy skies and cooler temperatures do not necessarily mean safer or more enjoyable conditions for jet skiing, kayaking, diving or boat excursions around popular coastal destinations such as Qantab and Marina Bandar Al Rowdha. Strong winds, rough seas and changing currents can endanger participants and complicate rescue operations.
The risks of sea excursions were highlighted by a January incident off Muttrah, in which three French tourists died after a tourist boat capsized while travelling towards the Daymaniyat Islands, underscoring the importance of prioritising safety at sea.
Oman Meteorology has reported rainfall of varying intensity across the Al Hajar Mountains, accompanied by downdraft winds and hail, with thunderstorms moving east-southeast. Meteorological sciences researcher Zaher al Shaqsi has also highlighted active thunderstorms, hail and frequent lightning in areas adjoining the mountains.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, Qurayat recorded the highest rainfall at 37mm, followed by Al Amerat at 31mm, between October 24 and 26, up to 7 pm on the final day.
Suhar-based social media personality Salem al Lamki has similarly advised mountain hikers to postpone their trips until conditions improve.
For adventure enthusiasts, postponing an outing is a small price to pay for safety. No summit, coastal excursion, or outdoor experience is worth risking a life when weather conditions remain unpredictable.