As you all know, Dhofar is about to be hit with Cyclone Chapala. There's a lot of information going around on social media, WhatsApp and the news. Lots of leaked memos from civil defense, police, schools etc. The government doesn't want people to panic, so they're not being informative about precautions except for the usual "stay away from wadis" Here's what you should know:
1) It's around 800 km off the coast of Dhofar. Rain already started in Shuwaymia and Halaniyat Islands
2) The cyclone is supposed to start "officially" tomorrow (Saturday afternoon/evening).
3) They are expecting up to 60 ml of rain.
4) It is expected to continue until Tuesday.
A leaked memo from civil defense likened this cyclone to the one we had in 2002. Meaning? It's bad. 2002 was bad, not necessarily because of the cyclone, but because the rain had nowhere to go and Salalah pretty much drowned (highway was cut off), wadis running, trees fallen, cars floating around, dead animals, etc. Some lives were lost as well. Mostly people who were in or near wadis.
I remember looking out the window and seeing trees bent over backwards and satellite dishes floating around (ones that had fallen OFF roofs).
So my advice?
1) Stock up on packaged food, candles
2) charge your batteries
3) If you're anywhere near a wadi, move your vehicle/animals, etc to higher ground
4) Don't go NEAR Wadis. Flash floods are REAL, people.
5) Even though Dhofar Power Company and Rural Areas Eelctricity company are working non-stop to ensure there is no power cut during the cyclone, keep in mind that you may have no power. These cyclones are powerful.
6) Omantel is also working hard to keep everything under control, but keep in mind that the 2002 cyclone led to zero communication for a couple of days. Make a plan in case there are no phones.
7) Stay indoors (and put towels near your windows just in case)
8) AVOID THE BRIDGES. There are plenty of temporary steel structures around the two new bridges. THEY MIGHT COLLAPSE.
Just stay indoors if the storm starts, and stay safe.
Will update if any important info comes along.
Nadia
Thank you so much for providing this info. We expats are very much in the dark - other than following weather forecasts, Your input is appreciated. The authorties should properly inform people!!
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