Salalah – Stronger-than-average rainfall during the 2025 khareef season significantly improved water reserves across Dhofar, replenishing groundwater aquifers, increasing spring flows and raising water storage levels in dams, according to a report issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources.

The ministry said most rainfall monitoring stations in the governorate recorded precipitation levels above seasonal averages, highlighting the positive impact of last year’s khareef on water security and environmental sustainability.

The highest rainfall of 731.6mm was recorded  in Kanzeer, followed by 542.6mm in Shir and 458.8mm in Rakhyut, reflecting the widespread distribution of rainfall across the governorate.

Ali bin Bakhit Bait Saeed, Director of the Water Resources Department in Dhofar, said a weather system that affected the governorate between August 15 and 25 contributed significantly to the increased rainfall.

He said the resulting runoff activated wadis and waterfalls and played an important role in recharging groundwater reserves.

According to the report, groundwater aquifers responded positively to the sustained rainfall, with water levels rising and spring discharge increasing following peak precipitation during July and August. The recharge continued to support water resources in the months that followed.

Data showed that the combined discharge from Dhofar’s main springs, including Ain Arzat, Ain Tabraq and Ain Hamran, reached about 13.4mn m³ during the season last year.

Ain Arzat recorded a marked increase in flow, averaging 322ltr/sec compared to its ten-year average of 229ltr/sec, indicating strong replenishment of underground water reserves.

The ministry also reported higher water retention levels in surface storage dams. Total water stored in dams reached 13,953m³, up from 11,177m³ recorded during the 2024 khareef season.

Hizam Dam recorded the highest storage level, holding around 3,600m³ of water.

Officials said the records underscore the importance of the annual khareef season in sustaining natural water resources, maintaining spring flows and supporting long-term water security in Dhofar.

The ministry said it will continue to strengthen hydrological monitoring systems, expand water-harvesting infrastructure and advance scientific studies aimed at improving water resource management and enhancing climate resilience across the sultanate.