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Doctors issue health advisory as Oman braces for 50°C heat

Oman Sunday 19/July/2026 20:57 PM
By: Times News Service
Doctors issue health advisory as Oman braces for 50°C heat

MUSCAT: Oman is set to experience another spell of extreme summer heat, with temperatures expected to approach 50 degrees Celsius in coastal and desert areas over the coming days, according to a warning issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The CAA’s National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Centre said temperatures will begin rising gradually from Sunday evening (July 19) and continue through July 20 and 21, with the hottest conditions forecast across coastal areas overlooking the Sea of Oman and the country’s interior desert regions.

Authorities said daytime temperatures are expected to range from the mid-40s to nearly 50°C, urging residents to take necessary precautions during the peak heat period.

Medical professionals have also appealed to the public to remain vigilant, warning that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke, particularly among children, elderly people, outdoor workers and those with chronic medical conditions.

Dr Dilip Singhvi, Specialist in Internal Medicine and Diabetes at Burjeel Hospital, said advised citizens and residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, generally between 12am and 3pm.

“When temperatures approach 50 degrees Celsius, the risk of heat-related illnesses increases significantly. People should drink water regularly, even if they do not feel thirsty, wear loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing, and stay in air-conditioned or shaded places whenever possible,” he said. Doctors also recommend avoiding strenuous physical activity during peak daytime hours and limiting the consumption of caffeinated and sugary drinks, which may contribute to dehydration.

Instead, people are encouraged to consume plenty of water and include water-rich fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, oranges and cucumbers in their diet.

Parents have been reminded never to leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, even for a short period, as temperatures inside a closed vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.

Health experts said anyone experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, headache, confusion, nausea, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating followed by hot and dry skin, or loss of consciousness should seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment.

Outdoor workers have also been advised to take frequent rest breaks in shaded areas, stay well hydrated and follow occupational safety measures to minimise the risk of heat stress.

The Civil Aviation Authority urged residents and visitors to keep updated with the latest weather bulletins and follow official advisories as the Sultanate experiences one of the hottest periods of the summer season.