Heavy rain in eastern Dhofar as LUBAN NEARS SALALAH
Tropical storm Luban unleashed heavy rains in the eastern parts of Dhofar on Saturday.
Sources in the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) said that Luban, which has been downgraded to a tropical storm, was some 160150 km from Salalah (at the time of reporting). While passing through the city on way to Yemen, it is likely to cause heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Satellite images suggest Luban would indirectly affect some parts of Dhofar and Al Wusta.
The eastern parts of Dhofar such as Hasik, Shuwaymiyah, Halaniyat and Sadah received heavy rains because of the storm’s movement from east to west. Thick clouds were seen in Taqah and Salalah city with scattered rains in some places. In all likelihood, Salalah and its adjoining areas would receive heavy rains on Saturday night and Sunday morning.
Heavy rains caused landslides on the coastal road near Hasik.
Subsequently, the coastal road between Hasik and Shuwaymiyah was closed for some time. Now it is accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has asked motorists to exercise caution while driving on the road.
Another road, Tawee Ateer to Mirbat, has also been closed keeping in mind the public safety and likely heavy rain in the area.
Meanwhile, air traffic at Salalah Airport was normal, according to PACA. PACA has urged people to take precautions and avoid low lying areas in view of the likelihood of heavy rains and accompanying strong winds.
“Rely on information only from official sources and not those spread through rumours,” said the authorities.