The Regional Center for Early Warning of Sand and Dust Storms, based in Riyadh, announced that it had monitored 74 hours of dust storms in a number of countries in the region on May 10, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor weather phenomena and strengthen the early warning system to reduce their negative effects.
General context: A recurring phenomenon in the global dust belt
Dust and sandstorms are a common natural phenomenon in the Middle East and North Africa region, which lies within the so-called "global dust belt." These storms arise from several natural factors, most notably the vast expanses of arid desert land and strong winds, such as the seasonal northerly winds. However, recent decades have witnessed a significant increase in the frequency and intensity of these storms, which experts attribute to human factors such as climate change, drought, desertification, land degradation, and the draining of water bodies. These factors increase soil erosion, making it more susceptible to being blown away by the wind.
Report details and distribution of dust storms
The center's report indicated that Iran was the most affected country, recording 19 hours of dust storms, followed by Jordan with 18 hours. Pakistan and Uzbekistan tied for third place, each recording 12 hours of dust storms. Saudi Arabia experienced 10 hours of dust storms, while the United Arab Emirates recorded 3 hours. The center noted that the remaining countries in the region did not record any dust storms during the monitoring period, reflecting the geographical variation in the impact of the weather systems causing this phenomenon.
The importance and expected effects of dust storms
Dust storms have far-reaching consequences that extend far beyond simply reducing visibility. From a health perspective, the fine airborne particles pose a risk to the respiratory system, exacerbating asthma, allergies, and heart conditions. Economically, they paralyze air and land transportation, damage infrastructure, and negatively impact vital sectors such as agriculture and solar energy. Environmentally, they contribute to the deterioration of air, water, and soil quality, and affect marine ecosystems. The transboundary nature of these storms makes them a regional and international issue requiring collaborative efforts to address their sources and mitigate their effects.
The center's role and mitigation efforts
The center affirmed that its ongoing monitoring and analysis efforts aim to provide relevant authorities with accurate and timely information, thereby enhancing preparedness and bolstering rapid response to mitigate the effects of dust storms. The center reiterated its call to all members of the community, particularly those most vulnerable to the effects of dust, such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, to stay informed by following weather updates and adhering to the preventative guidelines issued by official authorities. This call is part of the center's ongoing awareness campaign under the slogan: #WeMonitor_WeResearch_WeWarn.
