Gonu fizzles out over Iran

Dubai/Muscat: Cyclone Gonu left at least 53 people dead in its wake as it weakened yesterday but floods cut off dozens of villages in southern Iran sending residents climbing trees for safety.

The Director of Fujairah Port in the eastern part of the UAE said 10 sailors are missing after their boat sank in Omani waters on Wed-nesday. He said 11 other sailors, nine Indians, a Sudanese and an Eritrian, were rescued from that boat.

An Iranian official was quoted as saying the cyclone's impact will soon be "completely gone".

The Royal Oman Police said the latest death toll is 49 and 27 people are still missing. A large group of Indians have reportedly been swept away by the raging waters. Oman said its oil and gas operations are back to normal and tanker loading operations at Mina A1 Fahal began yesterday with a cargo of one million barrels.

But there is a huge water shortage in many parts of Oman and people were seen taking water from swimming pools. Bottled water is being shipped from Dubai, residents said.

Salvage operations have started in Fujairah with residents trying to get back to their flooded homes.

In Ras Al Khaimah the ban on fishing continued. Fish markets are experiencing huge shortages. The coast guard is only allowing fishermen into the waters if they sign a declaration that they take full responsibility of their actions.