Dust storms hit the region: Saudi Arabia and Jordan recorded 108 hours of dust storms
The Regional Center for Dust and Sandstorms announced that it had recorded 108 hours of dust storms in several countries in the region, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor weather phenomena and analyze their environmental and climatic impacts. This precise monitoring aims to strengthen early warning systems and support the preparedness of relevant authorities to deal with these natural phenomena, which have been increasing in frequency and intensity in recent years.
The center explained in its latest report that Jordan recorded the highest number of hours of dust activity at 27 hours, followed by Kazakhstan with 22 hours, and then Iran with 20 hours. Monitoring also included Pakistan (15 hours), Saudi Arabia (11 hours), Iraq (7 hours), and Egypt (6 hours), while the remaining countries in the region did not record any cases during the monitoring period. This reflects a clear geographical variation in dust activity depending on prevailing weather conditions and the movement of influential climatic systems.
General context: Why are dust storms increasing in the region?
The Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia are part of the global “dust belt,” a region characterized by desert and semi-desert landscapes that make it a major source of sandstorms. Historically, these phenomena were part of the regional climate, but scientists and experts link their current increase to climate change. Rising temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and prolonged droughts are causing topsoil to loosen, making it easier for winds to carry and transport enormous quantities of dust and sand over vast distances.
Wide-ranging impacts on health, economy and environment
Dust storms have far more than just reduced horizontal visibility; they have multiple impacts that directly affect the lives of millions. From a health perspective, the fine airborne particles cause respiratory problems, exacerbate asthma and allergies, and pose a risk to the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses. Economically, these storms paralyze air and sea traffic, disrupt land transport, damage crops, and reduce the efficiency of solar power plants, resulting in significant losses for national economies.
The importance of monitoring and regional cooperation
The regional center affirmed that ongoing monitoring and analysis are part of its mandate to track the development of dust storms and issue scientific data and reports to support decision-makers. Providing accurate and timely information contributes to enhancing the efficiency of response to and management of these phenomena and their potential impacts on public health and air quality. The center urged everyone to follow regular updates and adhere to preventive guidelines during periods of dust activity, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared environmental challenges.
