Oman weather: Don’t risk life by crossing wadis, says PACDA

Muscat: With heavy rainfall expected in Oman and the weather conditions likely to worsen from Tuesday , the Pubic Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance (PACDA) has once again advised citizens and residents not to risk their lives.
In the past, civil defence authorities have grappled with the challenge of saving lives as some irresponsible drivers tried crossing overflowing wadis and waded in difficult terrain.
Such behaviour not only puts the drivers’ lives at risk but also imperils the safety of workers who take up the difficult and arduous task of saving stranded people.
Cloudy skies and isolated rains are expected over the governorates of Muscat, Musandam, Al Buraimi, Al Dhahira, North and South Al Batinah, Al Dakhliya and North and South Al Sharqiyah, starting from Tuesday.
According to the National Multi Hazard Early Warning Centre at the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA), the Sultanate will be affected by a deep upper air trough starting from Tuesday until Friday.
“PACDA rescue teams are on standby for any distress calls from citizens and residents and we are working in coordination with weather forecast authorities,” an official from PACDA said on Monday.
There are chances of isolated rain and occasional thundershowers associated with hail and fresh winds in the nine governorates from Tuesday. “We fear that North Al Batinah will get the maximum amount of rainfall according to the latest forecast,” said a PACA official.
PACA has advised the public to take precautions during the rain and avoid crossing wadis (valleys), as well as checking the sea conditions before sailing.
Urging people to stay informed and be ready to act if a warning is issued, PACA has sent out some safety tips.
The safety tips sent by PACA says during a thunderstorm people must rush to the nearest building or vehicle and use it as a shelter. “Avoid standing under tall trees, lamp-posts and telecommunication towers. Don’t risk working or standing in high places, such as hills,” the official said.
The list also reminded that lying on the ground increases the chances of getting struck by lightning. “If you happen to be swimming, get back to land immediately. If you are away from safe areas, sit in a bending position,” the official added.