Text 2

¹ The coastal zones of Oman are densely populated and have high rates of population growth and urbanization and this trend is expected to continue in the future. According to the census of 2010, 80% of the Omani population lives in low lying areas such as coastal plains. This population is also likely to be exposed to coastal hazards including sea-level rise (SLR) and associated storm surge flooding effects.

² A study by Al-Awadhi, Ramadan, Choudri, and Charabi, (2016) from Sultan Qaboos University, investigated the extent of flooding in coastal zones due to sea level rise and exposure to possible storm surge flooding. The results of the assessment show that Oman is highly vulnerable to climate change-induced sea level rise (SLR). At the national scale, nearly 400 square kilometers of total land area are projected to be in danger of being flooded under even the smallest SLR scenario. Specifically, the Al-Batinah and Muscat governorates are the most vulnerable under all SLR scenarios.

³ Overall, the findings of this study above highlight that Oman is vulnerable to coastal flooding and SLR, therefore there is a need for the development of a strategic coastal management plan to provide for better adaptive planning for building stronger, resilient coastal communities in the future.

Note: Words in bold are assessed. See Unit 4 Vocabulary. Words in italics are defined in the glossary below.

Glossary

Densely (adv) - In a closely compacted or crowded manner; thickly.

Census (n) - A census counts the population of a nation, state, or other geographic region. It records information about the population’s characteristics, such as age, sex, and occupation.

Induce (v) - To cause or bring about.

Resilient (adj) - Something that is resilient is strong and not easily damaged by being hit, stretched, or squeezed.

understanding the text: skimming / Scanning

1. What, according to the study, should be done in Oman about the problem of SLR ?

2. Table: What is the average population growth rate across Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South and Muscat?

a. Nearly 60%

b. Over 80%

c. Nearly 70%

3. A large number of people live near the coast of Oman coast and this number is _____

a. continuing to decrease

b. likely to increase

c. expected to stay the same

analyzing the text: Critical thinking

Answer to the following critical thinking questions:

1. If sea level rise continues at the present rate, predict how Oman will be affected in 2065.

2. Can you think of any evidence for sea level rise in Oman?