Muscat – Sporadic rains and thunderstorms lashed several interior areas on Sunday with the Directorate General of Meteorology forecasting overcast conditions for the week.

The Directorate General of Meteorology stated that there are chances of thunderstorms accompanied by active downward winds on the Al Hajar Mountains and neighbouring areas on Sunday. ‘Cloud activity is expected to increase this week on the Al Hajar Mountains gradually starting from Monday. Sporadic rains are also expected on the coasts and mountains of Dhofar governorate.’

Rains were reported in several areas on Sunday evening, including Al Hamra, Dhank, Izki, Sinaw, Ibra, Bahla, Ibri, Jalan Bani bu Hasan and Yanqul among others.

In its forecast for the week, the Met Office stated, ‘The latest satellite images show the presence of normal seasonal cloud activity in the middle of the Arabian Sea. Forecasts indicate chances of clouds spreading and flowing sporadically during the coming days over the sultanate’s airspace.’

In its forecast for Monday, the Met Office predicted partly cloudy skies along the coastal areas of Dhofar governorate and adjoining mountains with intermittent drizzle. ‘Mainly clear skies are expected over the rest of the governorates with medium and high cloud advection. Convective cloud development and isolated rains are expected over the Al Hajar Mountains and adjoining areas towards afternoon and evening and dust rising over desert and open areas.’

Seas will be rough along the coast of the Arabian Sea with maximum wave height of 3m and moderate along the remaining coastline with maximum wave height of 1.25m.