Middle East: Dust storms forecast across much of the Arabian Peninsula May 17

Event

Dust storms are forecast across much of the Arabian Peninsula May 17, including parts of Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The dust storms will cause reduced visibility and will likely lead to disruptions to ground and air transport in affected areas, as well as causing health concerns, especially for those with existing respiratory conditions. In addition to the dust, gusty winds might cause sporadic power outages in the affected area. The dust storms are expected to last until late May 17 in most affected regions before easing May 18.

The Bahrain Meteorological Directorate has issued its highest level warnings for dust storms across the kingdom May 17 and advised the public to take action due to the adverse weather conditions. The dust storms will be accompanied by winds of up to 56 kph (35 mph).

The Omani Directorate General of Meteorology has issued dust storm advisories for Hamra ad Duru and Marmul May 17. The directorate has warned of the possibility of reduced visibility in many areas due to dust storms.

Qatar's Meteorological Department has warned of reduced visibility across Qatar due to dust storms May 17, with visibility being virtually zero at times. The dust storms will be accompanied by strong winds and rough seas.

Saudi Arabia's National Center for Meteorology has issued orange dust storm warnings (the second highest level on a three-tier scale) across Al Qassim, Eastern, Hail, eastern Medina, and Riyadh provinces May 17. Yellow dust storm warnings have been issued for eastern Al Bahah, eastern and central Aseer, eastern Mecca, and eastern Najran provinces. The center has warned of a near lack of horizontal visibility in the worst affected regions.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology has issued warnings for fresh northwesterly winds of up to 40 kph (25 mph) causing blowing dust that could reduce visibility to below 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) over some coastal and inland areas May 17, with western areas forecast to be the worst affected,

Transport
In addition to posing a direct health risk to those with pulmonary or respiratory issues, large storms can delay air and ground transport operations due to strong winds and low visibility. Dust storms can cause hazardous driving conditions, resulting in traffic congestion and an increased frequency of accidents.

Flight delays, diversions, and cancellations are possible at airports across the affected region during periods of severe dust storm activity. Disruptions are typically more severe during rush-hour periods. Poor local driving practices, such as not using headlights at night or failing to allow for a safe distance between vehicles, could compound weather-induced hazards.

Hazardous conditions may prompt school or business closures. Expect higher-than-normal employee absenteeism in the event of widespread transport disruptions. Residual business and transport disruptions are possible even after weather conditions improve.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated and related weather advisories. Exercise caution while driving and allow additional time to reach destinations. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or returning rental cars. Plan for possible delivery delays. If operating in areas affected by dust storm activity, consider remaining indoors when possible. Those who must be outdoors should use face masks and observe other precautions to avoid dust inhalation.

Resources

Bahrain Meteorological Directorate
Oman Directorate General of Meteorology
Saudi Arabia National Center for Meteorology
UAE National Center of Meteorology