Middle East: Dust storms forecast across parts of the region through at least June 13

Event

Dust storms driven by strong winds are forecast across parts of Iraq, Kuwait, eastern Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE through at least June 13. 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 region has been heavily impacted by a series of dust storms in recent months. The most severe dust storm impacts have been witnessed in Iraq, where thousands of people have been hospitalized with respiratory issues and flights regularly disrupted across the country due to reduced visibility at airports.

The Iraqi Meteorological Organization has warned that dust Levels will increase across much of Iraq over the coming days. Dust storms will begin to affect northern and central regions June 10. Dusty conditions are expected in central regions June 11 and southern regions June 12, before becoming widespread across much of the country June 13.

The Kuwait Meteorological Department has forecast that dust levels will increase from June 10, becoming more prevalent June 11-12. Strong winds of up to 60 kph (37 mph) will increase the risk of blowing dust.

Saudi Arabia's National Center for Meteorology has yet to issue any weather warnings for dust storms; however, dusty conditions are forecast across parts of central and eastern Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, June 10-13.

The Bahrain Department of Meteorology has forecast hot and dusty conditions across much of the kingdom June 10-11, with reduced visibility from dust haze likely to continue June 12.

Qatar's Meteorological Department has warned that strong northwesterly winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph) will cause dusty conditions through at least June 13. The dust storms will likely reduce visibility in many areas to below 2,000 meters (6,562 feet). The strong winds will also generate rough seas off the Qatari coast.

The UAE National Center of Meteorology has forecast dusty conditions for many areas through at least June 12. Winds of around 45 kph (28 mph) will increase the risk of blowing dust and reduce horizontal visibility. Rough seas are expected on the Arabian Sea and Oman Gulf coasts.

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
Kuwait Meteorological Department
Saudi Arabia National Center for Meteorology
UAE National Center of Meteorology