Muscat – The Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) has confirmed that attempts to cross flowing wadis remain the leading cause of emergency incidents during the current weather conditions in Oman, despite repeated warnings.

Heavy rains over the past few days have caused damage to property and loss of life across parts of the sultanate. Around 10 people have died in rain-related incidents, while the Royal Oman Police (ROP) rescued over 30 individuals who attempted to cross wadis during the severe weather.

Lt Col Mohammed bin Saeed Al Hatmi, Director of Operations at CDAA, said most cases handled by specialised rescue teams involved motorists entering flowing wadis and becoming trapped inside their vehicles.

He said rescue teams responded to several incidents involving individuals stranded in vehicles in wadi channels, noting that such behaviour continues despite ongoing awareness campaigns and repeated warnings.

Al Hatmi added that emergency teams also dealt with traffic accidents and electrical short circuits during the adverse weather. He urged the public to follow safety guidelines issued by relevant authorities and avoid crossing wadis to protect lives and property.

Among incidents reported on Monday, rescue teams in Dhahirah responded to a case involving three people trapped inside a vehicle in a wadi in Dhank. All were rescued in good health.

On the same day in Muscat governorate, rescue teams saved two people after their vehicle got trapped in waterlogged areas in the wilayat of Bausher. They were also reported safe.

However, attempts to cross wadis have led to several fatalities in recent days, drawing concern on social media. Khaled Al Qasimi said, “Crossing wadis during flash floods is not bravery; it is throwing oneself into danger.” Osama Al Rahbi called for stricter monitoring and urged the public to comply with official instructions.

Don’t test your car’s strength: ROP

In a renewed effort to enhance safety, the ROP has launched a public awareness campaign urging motorists not to risk crossing flooded wadis. The campaign carries the message, ‘Do not test the strength of your vehicle… test your awareness, and do not risk your life.’

Authorities reiterated that no vehicle can withstand the force of flowing wadis and urged road users to avoid low-lying roads during heavy rain.

The Public Prosecution warned that anyone attempting to cross flowing wadis faces up to three months’ imprisonment and a fine of RO500.