Post by : Maya Rahman

The Ninth International Symposium on Flash Floods in Wadi Systems kicked off on Tuesday at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman. Organized by the Water Research Centre in tandem with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, the Oman Water Society, and Kyoto University of Japan, this event aims to tackle pressing water issues.

Bringing together experts and researchers from Oman and 16 countries, the two-day symposium showcases over 76 scientific papers on the causes, effects, and management of flash floods and dams. The goal is to enhance understanding and devise practical solutions for flood management in both urban and rural contexts.

Dr. Ali bin Khamis al Maktoomi, the Director of the Water Research Centre, inaugurated the symposium, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration and ongoing research in addressing water-related challenges. He underscored the need for comprehensive plans and programs that integrate flood management with water resource development and sustainability for future safety and growth.

The symposium also delves into climate-related issues, discussing how rising cyclones, tropical storms, low-pressure systems, and shifting rainfall patterns contribute to more frequent and severe flooding, impacting urban infrastructure and ecological systems. Participants are exploring strategies to mitigate the damages caused by these events.

Experts stress the importance of innovative policies and advanced technologies in improving flood management, including the deployment of modern forecasting tools, resilient dam design, and urban preparedness for extreme weather. The symposium facilitates learning from international best practices in flood mitigation.

Research presentations focus on the effects of climate change on Oman and surrounding areas, investigating rainfall patterns, river flow, and wadi systems to forecast potential flood zones and develop mitigative solutions. Effective flash flood management is crucial for safeguarding communities, agricultural land, and natural environments.

Additionally, the event fosters knowledge sharing among scientists, policymakers, and engineers, with discussions on risk assessment, water storage, dam safety, and emergency response. By exchanging research findings and experiences, the symposium aims to contribute to sustainable water resource strategies that align human needs with environmental stewardship.

It also highlights the significance of urban planning and infrastructure in minimizing flood repercussions. Key discussions will cover designing efficient drainage systems, maintaining dams, and enhancing early warning systems to equip cities and communities against future climatic challenges.

In summary, the 9th International Symposium on Flash Floods in Wadi Systems serves as a vital platform for fostering both regional and global cooperation. It advocates for effective flood management, promotes sustainable water usage, and builds resilience against climate-related threats, strengthening Oman’s ability to tackle water and flood challenges.

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