Muscat: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), represented by the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Centre, has issued a weather report outlining expected conditions across the Sultanate from March 20 to 30, warning of unstable weather and varying intensities of rainfall.
According to the report, Oman will be affected by a low-pressure system beginning March 20, bringing intermittent rainfall that may be thundery at times, accompanied by active winds and occasional hail. The conditions are expected to continue until March 30, with a possibility of wadis flowing and reduced horizontal visibility due to rain and rising dust.
During March 20 and 21, cloud formations are expected over Musandam, Al Buraimi, North Al Batinah and parts of Al Dhahirah, extending to Al Hajar Mountains and the coasts of Dhofar. Light to moderate rainfall is likely, with occasional thunder and moderate southeasterly winds that may become active, particularly along coastal areas overlooking the Arabian Sea.
The main impact of the weather system is forecast between March 22 and 23, when convective clouds are expected to intensify over Musandam, Al Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, North and South Al Batinah, Muscat, interior regions, and parts of the eastern governorates. Rainfall may be of varying intensity and occasionally thundery, with the impact level ranging from moderate to high.
The authority warned of several potential hazards, including the flow of wadis, strong downdraft winds ranging between 30 to 45 knots, and gusts reaching 35 to 83 km/h, along with chances of hail. Active southeasterly winds may also lead to dust and sand rising, reducing visibility in affected areas.
Sea conditions are expected to be moderate along most of Oman’s coasts, with wave heights reaching up to two metres. Authorities have advised against venturing into the sea during the formation of thunderstorm cells.
From March 24 to 30, the weather conditions are expected to persist across most governorates, with continued chances of rainfall that may be thundery at times and associated with wadi flows. The CAA noted that further updates will be issued in subsequent reports.
The authority has urged the public to exercise caution during rainfall, avoid crossing wadis, monitor sea conditions before heading out, and stay updated with official weather advisories.
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