MUSCAT: It’s been 17 years since Cyclone Gonu wreaked havoc in Oman, but many people still have vivid memories of its devastating impact particularly in Muscat.

It was on June 6, 2007, Cyclone Gonu believed to be the nation’s worst natural disaster caused 50 deaths and about $4.2 billion in damage in Oman. Gonu dropped heavy rainfall near the eastern coastline, reaching up to 610 mm (24 inches), which caused flooding and heavy damage.

In Muscat streets were turned into turbulent rivers, trees uprooted and power lines severed. Cars were left piled on top of each other, stuck in rubble and mud.

17 years since the incident, Gonu left emotional scars on the people and the memories are still raw for many. “We were stuck home for almost three days without knowing what was happening. We were told the roads were washed away, many areas were heavily flooded so we had to patiently wait to see the light,” said Ashiq Usman who lives in Al Amerat that bore the brunt of the flood fury.

‘No electricity for days’
During Gonu, Oman also suffered major power outages and water supply disruptions as municipality workers worked round the clock to clean up and repair damages. “We can never forget that day,” said Mohammed Al Amri, a resident in Qurum. “The whole of Qurm near CCC (now Al Qurum Complex) was flooded. There was no electricity and it was during the peak summer when Gonu hit and we were helpless but thankfully the government officials worked round the clock to ensure we were safe,” he added.

Well-known TV Presenter Khalid Al Zadjali recalled the incident on social media platform X: “We remember those difficult days in which we suffered huge human and material losses. Despite the difficult situation, the strength of our loyal men emerged in those moments, as we witnessed great coordination between citizens and residents. We must not forget our government and private agencies. All the sectors joined hands to contain the crisis and mitigate its effects. The media played a major role in covering the Cyclone, and it conveyed the true picture to the world and contributed to directing and educating citizens and residents about safety methods.”