59 hours of dust storms were recorded regionally, with Jordan leading the way

Comprehensive report: 59 hours of dust storms recorded in the region

In light of the accelerating climate changes the world is witnessing, the Regional Center for Dust and Sandstorm Warning announced the recording of 59 hours of dust storms in a number of countries in the region during May 15, 2026. These statistics come as part of the diligent and continuous efforts made by the center in monitoring precise weather phenomena and analyzing their data, which effectively contributes to strengthening the early warning system and reducing the environmental, health and economic impacts associated with these dust storms.

Jordan tops the list of affected countries

According to official data from the center, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan topped the list of countries in the region in terms of the number of hours of recorded dust storms, with 20 continuous and intermittent hours. The Republic of Iraq came in second with 13 hours, followed by Kazakhstan with 10 hours. Pakistan recorded 7 hours, while the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia experienced 5 hours of dust, and Iran recorded only 4 hours. The center noted that the remaining countries in the region did not record any hours of dust storms during the same period, reflecting a significant variation in dust activity among the countries depending on the prevailing weather systems and climatic conditions in each region.

General context and historical background of the phenomenon

The Middle East and North Africa, along with parts of Central Asia, are among the most historically active regions prone to sand and dust storms. This is due to the arid and semi-arid desert landscapes that cover vast areas of these countries. Historically, these storms were part of the natural climate cycle, but recent decades have witnessed a significant increase in their frequency and intensity. This escalation is attributed to several interconnected environmental factors, most notably global climate change, deterioration of vegetation cover, increased desertification, declining rainfall levels, and changes in surface wind patterns.

The importance of the event and its expected impact (locally, regionally and internationally)

Dust storms have widespread effects that transcend national borders, making monitoring them extremely important:

• Health impact: Fine particles suspended in the air exacerbate respiratory illnesses such as asthma and allergies, placing additional strain on local healthcare systems in affected countries.
• Economic and environmental impact: Regionally, these storms cause a decrease in horizontal visibility, disrupting air, sea, and land navigation. They also negatively affect agricultural production by burying crops and eroding fertile soil.
• International impact: At the global level, dust storms play a role in changing the balance of solar radiation and affect ecosystems as dust travels across continents.

Continuous monitoring and regional cooperation

The Regional Center affirmed its commitment to continuing its monitoring, analysis, and ongoing updating of climate data. This pivotal role supports relevant authorities and decision-makers by providing accurate and timely information to enable them to take necessary proactive measures. This effort contributes to enhancing preparedness and effective response to impactful weather phenomena. This meticulous monitoring is part of the Center's strategy to strengthen regional and international cooperation and the exchange of data and expertise in monitoring sand and dust storms. It also aims to raise public and institutional awareness of the importance of monitoring the impacts of these phenomena on the environment and public health, in line with major regional initiatives aimed at combating desertification to ensure a sustainable environmental future.