Severe sandstorms engulf Saudi Arabia and Iraq
Large sandstorms swept through multiple provinces in Saudi Arabia, with parts of Riyadh and Al Qassim experiencing near-zero visibility on Sunday and Monday, May 4 and 5, 2025.
Widespread sandstorms affected central and northern Saudi Arabia on May 4 and 5, reducing visibility and prompting many residents to remain indoors.
Visibility dropped to near-zero in parts of Al Qassim and Riyadh provinces. Videos posted on social media showed large plumes of dust engulfing the town of Al Duwadimi on both days. Similar conditions were reported in Riyadh, where dust covered buildings and vehicles.
Authorities advised residents to stay indoors due to hazardous travel conditions and potential health risks associated with airborne dust.
The sandstorms are expected to continue intensifying as they move towards Kuwait over the coming days.
— (@Arab_Storms) May 4, 2025
A major dust storm affected Baghdad and surrounding regions in Iraq on May 5, significantly reducing visibility.
According to Iraq’s General Traffic Directorate, the storm was expected to spread into central and southern parts of the country by the evening of May 5. Drivers were advised to reduce speed, use hazard lights, maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and stop driving altogether if visibility became critically low.
Feature image credit: Arab Storms
Rishav is a skilled researcher specializing in extreme and severe weather reporting. He combines exceptional research capabilities with scientific precision to deliver clear, data-driven articles. Known for uncovering critical information, Rishav ensures his work is accurate, insightful, and impactful. His passion for both science and literature fuels his dedication to producing high-quality news articles. You can reach him at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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