Muscat: As April draws to a close, the Sultanate of Oman is already experiencing intense summer-like conditions, with temperatures soaring across several regions. According to data released by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Hamra Al Duru recorded the highest temperature in the country over the past 24 hours, hitting a scorching 44.0°C on Wednesday.
Other regions closely followed, with Al Suwaiq registering 43.9°C, Suhar at 43.8°C, and Khasab and Fahud both exceeding 43°C. Even typically moderate areas such as Samail, Sur, and Muqshin reported highs between 42°C and 43°C, indicating the heatwave’s broad reach.
Meanwhile, the lowest temperature in the country during the previous 24 hours was recorded in Saiq, which dipped to 18.7°C, providing little relief from the climbing mercury. Other cool spots like Qairon Hirti, Dalkut, and Muqshin experienced minimum temperatures ranging between 20°C and 22.9°C, highlighting the stark day-night temperature contrasts as summer conditions intensify.
Rising global temperatures: A worrying trend
This local heatwave coincides with a disturbing global pattern. International climate monitoring agencies have indicated that April 2025 may go down as one of the hottest Aprils ever recorded globally, with several regions across South Asia and the Middle East experiencing extreme heat events.
In Pakistan, some areas saw temperatures approach 48°C, with forecasters warning that new April records—potentially exceeding the 50°C mark—could be set within days. This surge is part of a broader pattern, with January 2025 already confirmed as the hottest January globally, and the world continuing to breach the 1.5°C warming threshold outlined in the Paris Climate Accord in 18 of the last 19 months.
Scientists are increasingly warning that these temperature anomalies are not isolated events. They represent a clear acceleration of global warming, with seasonal heatwaves arriving earlier and lasting longer than in previous decades. The implications include heightened health risks, agricultural stress, and increased energy demands for cooling.
Authorities urge caution as heat builds
In Oman, meteorological authorities are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours. The rapid onset of summer conditions is likely to impact public health, particularly for the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
In Oman, midday break for workers, banning work at construction sites and open areas from 12.30pm to 3.30pm generally begins by June 1.
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