Cyclone Shakhti downgraded to tropical storm

Muscat : The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed on Sunday that Cyclone Shakhti in the Arabian Sea has weakened and been downgraded to a tropical storm, though its effects continue to pose risks along parts of Oman’s coast.

According to the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center, the storm is currently located about 150 km from Oman’s coasts, with wind speeds around the center ranging between 40–55 knots. The system is moving west-southwest and is expected to maintain this track in the coming days, with its center drawing closer to Oman’s southeastern coastline between October 5 and 8.

Already, rain-bearing clouds have begun affecting parts of South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta governorates, bringing light to moderate rainfall. Authorities warned that conditions could intensify, with scattered showers of varying intensity forecast across coastal and interior areas.

The CAA cautioned that rough sea conditions are expected along all Omani coasts, with wave heights reaching 2–4 meters, and in some offshore areas, waves may rise as high as 6 meters. Residents have been urged to stay away from low-lying coastal zones due to the risk of seawater intrusion.

While the probability of Shakhti intensifying further remains low, the CAA emphasized that the storm’s rainfall and wind impacts could continue over the next two to three days, particularly in South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta. Emergency services remain on high alert, and the public has been advised to follow only official updates and exercise caution.