MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman will be impacted by another wave of the low-pressure system from after midnight until Monday morning, where the rains will be heavier, and the governorates to be impacted will also include Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South and the areas around Al Hajar Mountains.
The Sultanate of Oman will remain under the influence of this weather condition, which will continue until the end of this month at a varying pace. Rains will continue to fall on the governorates of Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South, Al Wusta and Al Dakhiliyah, with the affected area expanding to include Al Batinah South and parts of Dhofar Governorate. Thunderstorms are expected to continue over Al Hajar Mountains and desert areas during the afternoon and beyond.
The Emergency Management Subcommittees in the governorates of Al Dakhiliyah, Al Sharqiyah North, Al Sharqiyah South and Al Dhahirah held meetings to discuss the latest developments regarding the weather condition (Al Masarrat Depression) currently affecting the Sultanate of Oman.
The committees discussed their preparedness and assessed the readiness of various sectors within the emergency management system and the National Emergency Management Centre. They also discussed the continued activation of emergency plans for essential services, ensuring the readiness of shelters, specifying deployment points for ambulance and rescue teams, and preparing to reopen roads and ensure smooth traffic flow in the governorates in accordance with directives issued by the National Emergency Management Centre.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also warned of low clouds and fog formation during late night and early morning hours, particularly affecting Al Sharqiyah South, Al Wusta, Dhofar and coastal areas along the Sea of Oman. These conditions are expected to significantly reduce horizontal visibility, posing risks for motorists and travellers.
In addition, dust and sandstorms may impact desert and open areas, with strong downdrafts and blowing debris anticipated in some areas. Authorities have cautioned residents to remain alert, especially in areas prone to wadi flows and flash floods.
Mwasalat has announced the temporary suspension of several bus routes in response to weather alerts issued by relevant authorities.
In an official notice, Mwasalat stated that the decision comes in light of prevailing weather conditions and in coordination with concerned authorities to maintain safe and comfortable transportation services across Oman.
The company confirmed that the following bus routes have been suspended:
Route 6: Al Khoudh – Sultan Qaboos University – Al Khoudh
Route 7: Al Maabela – Al Khoudh – Burj Al Sahwa
Route 10: Al Maabela – Seeb Souq – Burj Al Sahwa
Mwasalat further noted that the continuation of both city and intercity bus services will be subject to ongoing evaluation based on weather developments. The operator added that any further directives requiring additional route suspensions will be communicated directly to passengers through its contact centre.
Meanwhile, ferry services remain operational, with the Shannah–Masirah route continuing as scheduled.
Passengers have been advised to stay updated and contact the Mwasalat Contact Centre at 1551 for inquiries and further information.
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