What is a dust storm?
Define Dust Storm
A dust storm, also known as a sandstorm, is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when strong winds blow loose sand and dirt from a dry surface into the air. Fine particles are transported by saltation and suspension, a process that moves soil from one place and deposits it in another. Dust storms are common in arid and semi-arid regions and can cause significant health hazards, including coughing and respiratory issues, as well as disrupt daily activities and infrastructure.
– Written by Dinusha Fernando
A dust storm is a meteorological phenomenon where a large volume of dust and sand particles are lifted and carried by strong winds. These storms typically occur in arid and semi-arid regions where there is a lot of fine, loose soil that can be easily swept up.
Some key characteristics of dust storms:
-They are characterized by a wall of thick, swirling dust that can reduce visibility to almost zero.
-The winds that drive a dust storm can reach speeds of over 50 mph (80 km/h), sometimes even exceeding 100 mph (160 km/h).
-Dust storms can cover large areas and travel hundreds of miles, picking up more particles along the way.
-They can last for hours or even days, depending on the weather conditions.
-Dust storms can have significant impacts, including disrupting transportation, damaging property, and affecting human health.
-They are common in parts of the world like the American Southwest, the Sahara Desert, and East Asia.
Dust storms are a natural occurrence, but they can be exacerbated by human activities that disturb the soil, such as overgrazing, deforestation, and poor agricultural practices. Monitoring and forecasting dust storms is an important part of weather tracking and emergency preparedness in affected regions.
– Written by Bunny Fdo
