Safe driving: Please drive carefully in foggy weather

Muscat: Dhofar governorate is known for its rainfall during the Kharaf season, but the governorate has been experiencing drizzles of late, resulting in persistent fog in the mountainous heights.

The Oman Meteorological Department has warned of low horizontal visibility due to rain, fog and dust, so both domestic and international tourists are urged to exercise caution when driving in foggy weather.

Thick fog severely reduced horizontal visibility in the Dhofar area, forcing drivers to be alert and take precautionary measures.

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) stands ready to assist visitors with security, traffic management and awareness. Patrols are strategically deployed along the mountain roads leading to Salalah Governorate to ensure a swift response and immediate handling of any incidents.

The police station is a must for tourists, as police regulate traffic and provide guidance to prevent accidents. Due to the foggy conditions in the mountains and the rains in Khareef, driving needs to be careful. Drivers should slow down, keep a safe distance, and use headlights when driving in foggy conditions.

In addition, one must also be careful of animals crossing the road in this pastoral area.

Lieutenant Colonel Tariq bin Awad Al Shafali of the Royal Police Force in Dhofar Governorate highlighted the police’s preparations for this year’s kharaw season. He said: “We are using modern technology and with the support of skilled technicians and well-educated personnel, the Royal Oman Police has done an excellent job in implementing our plans. We have managed to simplify many complex procedures.”

Drivers are also advised not to use their phones to take photos while driving. The environment and natural surroundings require that drivers pay full attention to the road. Those who wish to document their experiences on social media should park their car in a safe place before taking photos.

Fog is a big risk for drivers. While fog may not be an everyday hazard, knowing how to drive safely in fog is vital to everyone’s safety.