More than 15 dead, dozens rescued as heavy rain hits Oman

MUSCAT, MARCH 28

While authorities like the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the Royal Oman Police, and the National Centre for Emergency Management deserve praise for their advanced warning of the week-long weather conditions that affected various parts of the country last week, unfortunately, more than 15 people lost their lives and dozens were rescued during that period.

Although an official statement on the total number of deaths is still pending, several lives were lost despite repeated warnings to avoid flowing wadis or flash floods. It is important to note that some of the deceased died while either crossing wadis or acting recklessly, with the majority of fatalities occurring due to vehicles being washed away.

In response to these tragic events, the National Committee for Emergency Management has reiterated the importance of following preventive measures to protect lives. This includes staying home and only going out when absolutely necessary, after confirming that roads are safe to travel on.

Citizens and residents must always cooperate with the competent authorities by following guidelines and instructions to help reduce risks. It should be emphasised that there are penalties for drivers who knowingly risk crossing wadis, such as imprisonment or fines. Furthermore, parents are urged not to allow their children to play outside during the rains or near water bodies due to the associated dangers.

Recent incidents during the severe weather included a child being swept away by a wadi in Nizwa and a citizen drowning in Wadi Bani Khalid. Additionally, two female citizens drowned in a water pool in Ibri, with one attempting to rescue the other.

In another tragic event, a citizen's vehicle was swept away in a wadi in Manah, resulting in his death. In Musandam Governorate, a woman lost her life after being swept away by floodwaters, while a seven-year-old child drowned in a wadi in Barka.

On the first day of severe weather, a vehicle carrying 10 people was swept away in a wadi in Barka. Seven individuals were rescued, but unfortunately, three lost their lives.

Additionally, a building in AL Rustaq collapsed on several children, resulting in the death of four children and critical injuries to three others who were taken to the hospital for treatment.

In response to an incident in Al Batinah South, the CDAA rescued one person in good health after three vehicles were swept away in Wadi al Maawil, while two others tragically lost their lives.