Oman Shuts Schools Due to Unstable Weather on February 12
Oman announced the nationwide shutdown of schools On Monday, February 12, as a preventative step to address weather concerns.
Class suspensions for the stated day and projected resumes on Tuesday, February 13, were notified through a statement by the official state-run news agency ONA. This decision affects both public and private institutions.
With the exception of Al Wusta and Dhofar, all governorates in Oman have been instructed to halt lessons. The official announcement from the ONA makes it clear that weather is the main cause of the closure. All governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, with the exception of Al Wusta, Dhofar, will have to cancel Monday's classes (public, private, and international) because of the weather. Classes will pick back up the following Tuesday.
Weather forecasts for the country indicate the likelihood of heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail in the coming days. Oman Meteorology has issued warnings, mentioning the possibility of heavy rainfall exceeding 60 mm, which could result in downdraft winds of 15–35 knots. Additionally, dust rising during thunderstorms may lead to poor horizontal visibility, while there are chances of hail and overflowing valleys.
Specific regions expected to be affected include Musandam, North Al Batinah, Al Buraimi, South Al Batinah, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and Muscat, all of which may experience heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
These precautionary measures aim to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff members amidst the anticipated severe weather. By proactively closing schools, Omani authorities are taking steps to mitigate risks and safeguard the well-being of individuals in affected regions.
As Oman braces for potentially challenging weather conditions, residents are advised to stay informed about weather forecasts and adhere to safety guidelines provided by local authorities. This proactive approach underscores the government's commitment to prioritizing public safety and minimizing potential risks associated with adverse weather events.
