MUSCAT — Tragedy struck Oman as heavy rains unleashed massive floods across the Sultanate, claiming the lives of at least 17 individuals, including a group of schoolchildren and their driver who were swept away in their vehicle.

The nation mourns the loss of these young lives, marking a somber day as images of the devastating floods inundated social media platforms across the Gulf region.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, sent a cable of condolences and sympathy to Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq of the Sultanate of Oman for the victims of floods and rains that have affected parts of his country.

In his cable, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques extended to the Omani Sultan, the families of the deceased, and the Omani people his deepest condolences and sincere sympathy.

Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman sent a cable of condolences and sympathy to Sultan Haitham for the victims of the floods and rains that have affected parts of his country.

Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai expressed his heartfelt condolences to Sultan Haitham and the people of Oman in the wake of this tragic event.

Authorities in Oman reported the grim news on Monday, confirming the casualties and the ongoing efforts of rescue teams to locate any survivors.

The Royal Oman Police and the Omani Army have mobilized in the North Al Batinah Governorate to conduct search and rescue operations and evacuate citizens from flood-affected areas.

In light of the severity of the floods triggered by the "rainy depression," authorities took precautionary measures by suspending in-person classes in schools across six governorates significantly impacted by the deluge: Muscat, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Sharqiyah, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and South Al Batinah.

Civil Defense teams sprang into action, successfully evacuating 1,200 stranded students and teaching staff from a school severely affected by the floods.

Their swift response amid the crisis undoubtedly saved lives and provided much-needed relief to those caught in the deluge. — SG