What is a dust storm?
Dust or sand storms are natural events that usually occur when STRONG WINDS lift a large amount of sand, dust, dirt and other fine particles from bare and dry soil into the atmosphere, transporting them to sites hundreds to thousands of kilometres away. Dust storms are MOST COMMON IN DRY SEASONS or arid regions with little vegetation cover, and their frequency may be increased after periods of drought. Human activities and global climate change have resulted in an increased frequency of dust/sand storms in various parts of the world.

Why can dust or sand storms be a problem?
Depending on weather conditions and fine particle sizes, dust can remain suspended in the atmosphere for a few hours or several days. However, its impact can last for months and years afterwards and can be dangerous for several reasons.
Who is mostly affected by dust or sand storms?
Anyone may be detrimentally affected by a dust or sand storm. The longer you are exposed to high levels of dust or sand, the more likely you are to experience health effects. Those at HIGHEST RISK of developing relatively severe symptoms include..REad further from the factsheet