The Impact of Climate Change on Extreme Weather Events: Salalah Regional Analysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty of Science, Smart Management of Climate Change Program, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt. Meteorology Specialist, Oman Civil Aviation Authority, Salalah, Oman.

2 Ass. Professor of Atmospheric Physics, Physics Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University

3 Ass. Professor of Atmospheric Physics, Faculty of computer and information, South Valley University

Abstract

Climate change is expected to alter the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, increasing the risk of flash floods and prolonged droughts, particularly in water-scarce regions like Oman. While changes in precipitation and temperature have been observed, a comprehensive long-term trend analysis remains limited. This study analyzes extreme climate events in Salalah, Oman, using daily precipitation and temperature records from 1990 to 2023. Climate indices were derived using the RClimDex software package to assess variability and trends in extreme weather conditions. The findings reveal a statistically significant rise (at P-value < 0.05) in mean minimum temperature index (TMINmean) alongside a decline in cold nights (TN10P) and cold spell duration (CSDI) indicating a pronounced warming trend during nighttime hours. The Diurnal Temperature Range (DTR) has also decreased, further supporting the shift toward higher nocturnal temperatures. The Simple Daily Intensity Index (SDII) indicates a significant rise in precipitation intensity, despite the relative stability in wet day frequency. In addition, four precipitation indices show significant trends at P-value <0.10 , the indices are the extreme precipitation indices very wet days (R95p), extremely wet days (R99p), Max 1-day precipitation amount (RX1day), and Max 5-day precipitation amount (RX5day) suggest an increase in high-intensity rainfall events. These results highlight the growing prevalence of nocturnal warming and intensified rainfall extremes, with significant implications for heat stress, hydrological resources, and urban adaptation. The study emphasizes the necessity for proactive climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the escalating risks associated with climatic variability in the region.

Keywords