The weather has suddenly taken a turn in the Arab countries and a heavy dust storm is hitting many countries. After Egypt and Jordan, now this storm is moving rapidly towards Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Arab Center for Climate has cautioned people that winter is not over yet, so do not be careless. This news is also important for those Indians who live or work in these countries.
In which countries has this storm spread and where will it go next?
This dusty storm started from North Africa on Friday. Now it has spread to Jordan, Palestine, Syria and Egypt. According to the Meteorological Department, by Sunday this storm will reach the eastern part of Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Gulf via Iraq and Kuwait. In many areas the dust is so dense that visibility has reduced to less than 1000 meters. In some parts of Egypt and northern Saudi Arabia, it is becoming difficult to see even 500 meters away.
What is the advice for drivers and common people?
Saudi National Center for Meteorology and other departments have given some important rules for safety:
Caution while driving: If you cannot see anything due to dust, stop the vehicle at a safe place on the roadside and switch on hazard lights. Do not use high-beam headlights at all because due to this the light bounces back after hitting the dust particles and becomes invisible.
Health care: People who have respiratory diseases or allergies have been advised to stay indoors. If it is necessary to go out, wear a mask and keep the windows of the house tightly closed.
Impact on air travel: Many airlines have provided the facility of full refund or free rescheduling in case of flight cancellation.
Is winter over? Know the update of Meteorological Department
Many people were thinking that now the cold is gone, but the Arab Center for Climate has rejected this. Experts say that February is the most important month of the rainy season. Even in March 2026, the weather may remain quite active and winter may last longer than expected. This change in weather has been caused by a deep low pressure area, so don’t rush to pack your warm clothes just yet.