Tropical storm Chapala to hit Oman by Sunday

Muscat: Tropical cyclone Chapala will make landfall by Sunday evening and is expected to hit the Dhofar and Wusta governorates.

Medium and heavy rainfall will lash the southern provinces on Saturday evening.

The storm is now 570 kilometres away from the south coast of Oman with a wind speed between 105 to 115 knots, which is 189-90 kilometres per hour, according to the Public Authority for the Civil Aviation.

Rough seas are expected due to strong winds and waves are expected to reach up to seven metres.

Flooding is expected due to the intensity of expected rains.

Oman’s police, army, air and navy forces are on high alert ahead of the approaching cyclone are are preparing to deploy personnel for any necessary rescue operations and assistance.

New rescue equipment including army and civil defense vehicles and helicopters arrived on Saturday to Salalah.

Omanis have opened their homes for those who live in low areas where floods are likely to hit.

Many real estate companies also opened unoccupied homes for residents to stay for free during the cyclone.

Emirati nationals who own homes in Salalah have also opened their doors for anyone who needs shelter.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reassured nationals and residents that there are enough food supplies in both Dhofar and Wusta governorates.

Grocery shops had to restock items twice on Friday due to the heavy demand of residents stocking up on food supplies.

Three-hundred people were evacuated from Al Halanyat island. Three residents refused to leave despite the dangers reported by authorities.