From the archive
Oman Faces Extreme June Weather: Record Heat, Cold Snaps, and Heavy Rainfall Prompt Health Alerts
Oman faced extreme June 2026 weather, including record heat of 50.4°C in Mahout, a cold snap to 11.1°C in Jabal Shams, and heavy rain in Dhofar, prompting…
Oman experienced extreme weather conditions in June 2026, including record-breaking heat, unexpected cold snaps, and heavy rainfall, prompting health alerts across the Sultanate. The Civil Aviation Authority reported a peak temperature of 50.4°C in Mahout during the month. This heat marked one of several unusual weather events observed throughout June. The Ministry of Health issued warnings to residents regarding the varied and intense climatic shifts.
Record Temperatures Across Sultanate
Jabal Shams registered the country’s lowest temperature at 11.1°C during June 2026. After Mahout's 50.4°C, Barka, Damaa and Al Tayeen, and Fahud all recorded the next highest temperature of 49.4°C. Qarn Al Alam registered 48.4°C. Jabal Shams topped the list of cooler temperatures with 11.1°C. Saiq registered 16.8°C, while Al Ashkharah recorded 18.0°C. Jabal Harem saw temperatures of 18.2°C. Dhalkut registered 20.4°C, marking some of the Sultanate's cooler points during the month.
Dhofar Sees Significant Rainfall
Dhalkut in Dhofar recorded the highest rainfall during June, receiving 55 mm of rain. While intense summer heat prevailed over much of the country, rainfall remained concentrated in parts of Dhofar and the mountainous regions. Qayroun Hairiti, also in Dhofar, registered 11.2 mm of rainfall. Outside Dhofar, Jabal Shams recorded the second-highest rainfall at 18.4 mm. Saiq received 16.6 mm of rain. Ibra also reported significant precipitation, with 12.2 mm during the month. These figures indicate a localized pattern of heavy precipitation amidst broader heat trends across Oman.
Health Ministry Issues Warnings
The Ministry of Health has intensified public awareness efforts, urging people to take preventive measures against heat stress and sunstroke. Dr. Shamsa Al Harthy, Head of school and university health programmes at the Ministry of Health, stated that "elderly aged 65 and above, infants and children under four years old, outdoor workers exposed to direct sunlight, employees working in enclosed spaces without air conditioning, and pilgrims are most susceptible to heat stress and sunstroke."
Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include excessive sweating, severe fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, extreme thirst, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, and elevated body temperatures ranging between 38 and 39.5 degrees Celsius. Changes in skin condition, including redness and excessive warmth or cold, clammy skin accompanied by paleness, should also be regarded as warning signs.
Proper hydration remains the most effective defense against heat-related illnesses. People exposed to hot weather should drink water regularly throughout the day, recommending between two and four cups of water every hour when outdoors in high temperatures. Individuals undertaking physical activity under the sun should replenish lost salts and minerals and avoid beverages containing high levels of caffeine or sugar. Those working or exercising outdoors are advised to drink one to two cups of water every 15 to 20 minutes. The public is urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 10 a.m. And 4 p.m. Workers in hot environments should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. The use of hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen is also recommended.
Context and Official Data
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) released monthly weather statistics for June 2026, providing official data on the extreme climatic conditions experienced across Oman. These statistics confirmed the widespread nature of the record heat, cold snaps, and significant rainfall that impacted various regions throughout the month.