Residents in Oman's Dhofar Governorate and Al Jazir in the Al Wusta Governorate are preparing for inclement weather as heavy rainfall hits the country in the wake of Cyclone Tej's deepening in the Arabian Sea.
According to recent updates from Oman Meteorology, Cyclone Tej has been reclassified as a Category 2 Tropical Cyclone, down from its previous Category 3 status, and experts anticipate further weakening to Category 1. The cyclone is currently located 250km away from Salalah city and is moving in a west-northwest direction, heading towards the coasts of Dhofar Governorate and Yemen, where it is expected to make landfall on Monday evening or tomorrow morning. Some regions are already experiencing the effects of the cyclone, including flooded roads and valleys.
Omani authorities are carrying out evacuations in Hallaniyat Islands and coastal areas of Salalah, Rakhyut, and Dhalkot. Shelters and accommodations in the Dhofar Governorate have been prepared to accommodate around 15,000 people. Due to the adverse weather conditions, October 23-24 (Monday and Tuesday) have been declared official holidays for both public and private sector employees in the Dhofar Governorate and Al Wusta Governorate. Heavier rains are anticipated, leading to the flooding of valleys and low-lying areas.
Residents can expect strong winds, which may cause objects to become airborne and trees to be uprooted. Seas will be rough, posing a risk of water reaching coastal regions. Flight services between Muscat and Salalah airports have been increased to facilitate movement during the cyclone. The Civil Aviation Authority has issued a stern advisory, urging the public to exercise extreme caution. Specifically, they recommend avoiding crossing valleys and staying away from low-lying areas for safety.
Local authorities have issued guidelines and warnings for residents to follow during these unstable weather conditions.