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Context

A massive sandstorm swept central and southern Iraq  hospitalizing over 1800 people with respiratory issues.

Iraq is one of the five most climate vulnerable countries globally as per the United Nations.

In 2022 a similar storm killed one person and caused 5000+ respiratory illnesses.

Definition

Sand and Dust Storms are extreme weather events in which strong winds lift and transport loose sand and dust particles over large distances.

These phenomena are prevalent in arid and semi arid regions and are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change and unsustainable land-use practices.

Causes of SDS

Natural Factors

Lack of moisture allows soil to become loose and airborne.

Strong Winds often caused by pressure gradients or gust fronts from storms.

Sandy or loamy soil types are more prone to wind erosion.

Anthropogenic Factors

Deforestation & Overgrazing exposes land to wind erosion.

Tillage without cover crops loosens topsoil.

Drying lakes and rivers e.g., Aral Sea create new dust basins.

Land degradation increases dust particle sources.

Impact

Global

SDS can cross countries and oceans e.g., Saharan dust reaching the Americas.

Dust alters radiation balance, clouds and precipitation.

Iron rich dust can fertilize ocean regions affecting marine ecosystems.

India Specific Impact

Affected Zones include Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, and parts of Punjab.

SDS aggravates pollution in northern India.

Increase in asthma, bronchitis and cardiovascular diseases.

Dust damages crops, erodes topsoil and reduces photosynthesis.

Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies

Preventive Measures

Shelterbelts and windbreaks reduce wind velocity.

No-till farming, mulching and cover cropping.

Use of biodegradable crusts, chemical stabilizers or stone bunds.

Restore wetlands and water bodies to reduce desertification.

Emergency Response

Improve SDS forecasting e.g., via satellite monitoring.

Distribute masks, improve hospital readiness.

Educate communities on protective steps.

Sources:

DOWNTOEARTH