Severe dust storm sweeps 9 Arab states, worsening Gaza’s plight
A severe dust storm driven by a seasonal khamsin weather system swept across nine Arab countries on Wednesday, intensifying the hardships faced in Gaza and prompting widespread alerts, Anadolu Agency reported. The affected countries include Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
In Gaza, already enduring a second year of Israeli bombardment and blockade, displaced families suffered further as strong winds tore tents apart and thick dust filled overcrowded camps. Palestinian media reported debris flying through densely populated displacement zones, with videos showing darkened skies and swirling dust. The ongoing siege has exacerbated displacement and famine in the region.
The Palestine Meteorological Department issued warnings for fire hazards and advised respiratory patients to stay indoors amid hot, dry, and dusty conditions, with temperatures 10–12°C above seasonal averages and strong southeasterly winds.
Jordan experienced reduced visibility on desert highways, with temperatures rising 8–9°C above normal and winds reaching 50 km/h. Egypt saw sandstorms in Assiut and Minya, leading to nationwide school closures and exam delays. Syria reported nighttime winds exceeding 50 km/h and rain showers along coastal areas.
Lebanon faced high temperatures, strong winds up to 70 km/h, and thunderstorms with lightning. Iraq forecast ongoing heat and dust storms. Kuwait and Qatar issued dust and thunderstorm warnings, while Saudi Arabia warned of flash floods, hail, and dust reducing visibility in several regions.
The khamsin storms, named for their occurrence roughly 50 days after spring begins, brought widespread disruption and heightened safety concerns across the region.
