The 2025 Khareef Dhofar season recorded rainfall levels above the historical average, contributing to improved water resources across Dhofar Governorate, according to a recent report from the Directorate-General of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. Data collected from monitoring stations indicated rainfall amounts exceeding typical seasonal totals by 11 to 91 percent, with the Kanzir station in Salalah registering the highest precipitation at 731.6 millimeters.

The report highlights that a low-pressure system affecting the region between August 15 and 25 played a significant role in boosting rainfall during the season. This weather event triggered flows in wadis and waterfalls, ultimately enhancing groundwater recharge. Hydrological assessments showed a noticeable increase in groundwater reservoir levels and spring flows following peak rainfall in July and August.

Total discharge from the main springs in Dhofar reached approximately 13.4 million cubic meters throughout the Khareef season. Notably, the Razat spring recorded an average flow rate of 322 liters per second, surpassing its ten-year average. Surface water storage also improved, with dams holding 13,953 cubic meters, up from 11,177 cubic meters during the comparable period in 2024, reflecting enhanced water harvesting and runoff management.

Eng Ali bin Bakheet Beit Said, Director of the Water Resources Department, emphasized that the Khareef season’s significance extends beyond raw rainfall figures. He pointed to its critical role in sustaining groundwater recharge and spring flows, which are essential for water security and ecological stability in the governorate.

The findings are derived from data collected through Dhofar’s hydrological monitoring network, which tracks precipitation patterns and the hydrologic responses of groundwater and springs to climatic variables. This network supports evidence-based water resource management in the region.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources intends to continue strengthening monitoring infrastructure, expanding data sets, and advancing scientific research on water resources. They also plan to improve water harvesting facilities as part of broader efforts to implement integrated water management strategies. These initiatives aim to bolster resilience to climate variability and advance sustainable water security in Dhofar.

The Khareef Dhofar monsoon season remains one of Oman’s key climatic phenomena, sustaining water resources, vegetation, and ecosystems through its characteristic drizzle, fog, and low cloud cover, which recharge aquifers and maintain the flow of springs and wadis in the area.