Flash floods hit Gulf countries, kill five in Oman

ALBAWABA- At least five people have been killed in Oman after heavy rains triggered deadly flash floods, with authorities continuing search operations for missing individuals.

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According to the Omani Civil Defense, several victims died when vehicles were swept away by fast-moving wadi floods in the Wilayat of Barka and Al-Maawil in South Al Batinah Governorate. The sudden surge of water (wadi waters) caught motorists off guard, turning roads into torrents within minutes.

Emergency teams have rescued dozens of residents and drivers stranded in flooded areas across Muscat, Sur, and other areas, as rising water inundated streets and low-lying neighborhoods.

The severe weather, driven by a persistent low-pressure system, has caused widespread disruption nationwide. Flooded roads have led to traffic chaos and temporary closures, while authorities warned of dangerous conditions, including poor visibility, strong downdraft winds reaching 15–50 knots, and possible hailstorms.

Forecasters say the situation may worsen. Meteorological agencies predict the system will intensify across the Gulf Cooperation Council region on Wednesday and Thursday, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to northern and central Oman, as well as parts of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and eastern Saudi Arabia.

Some areas could receive up to a full year’s average rainfall within days, sharply increasing the risk of further deadly flooding and even rare tornado activity in the desert region.

Authorities across the Gulf have issued flash flood warnings for wadis and low-lying zones, with travel disruptions, school closures, and emergency measures already in place. While no fatalities have been reported outside Oman so far, officials have urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas and strictly follow safety guidance.