Dust storms are atmospheric phenomena in which strong winds entrain and transport large quantities of loose, fine-grained mineral particles (primarily silt- and clay-sized) from arid or semi-arid surfaces into the boundary layer and sometimes higher troposphere. They are driven by pressure gradients associated with synoptic systems, convective outflows, or frontal passages, and are characterized by reduced visibility, intense horizontal fluxes of particulate matter, and strong size-selective sorting. Research on dust storms examines their emission thresholds, aerodynamic entrainment mechanisms (saltation and suspension), radiative and microphysical impacts on climate, nutrient and contaminant redistribution, and implications for atmospheric chemistry and human and ecosystem health.
How do living bacteria survive on the surface of dust particles carried by desert storms from the Sahara and Egypt to Israel?
Ecology
Aug 20, 2025
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Strong winds from a South Pacific anticyclone triggered a massive sand and dust storm in southern Peru on Thursday, catching residents in coastal regions by surprise, authorities said.
Environment
Aug 1, 2025
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Sand and dust storms affect about 330 million people in over 150 countries and are taking an increasing toll on health, economies and the environment, the U.N. World Meteorological Organization says.
Environment
Jul 12, 2025
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An average of more than 1 million acres of idled farmland a year is a significant contributor to a growing dust problem in California that has implications for millions of residents' health and the state's climate.
Environment
Jun 2, 2025
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Much to the surprise of Sydney-siders, a dusty haze settled over the city on Tuesday morning after a week of heavy rain.
Environment
May 28, 2025
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As Europe increases its reliance on solar energy to meet climate and energy security targets, a growing atmospheric phenomenon is complicating the path forward: Saharan dust. New research presented at the European Geosciences ...
Earth Sciences
May 2, 2025
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A sandstorm swept through Iraq, filling the air with choking dust that closed airports and put more than 3,700 people in hospital with breathing difficulties, the health ministry said Tuesday.
Environment
Apr 15, 2025
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A sandstorm in central and southern Iraq sent more than 1,800 people to hospitals with respiratory problems on Monday, health officials said.
Environment
Apr 14, 2025
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161
Every year, from December to April, the Harmattan sweeps across Africa. This cool, dry and dust-laden wind gets its name from haramata, a word in the Ghanaian language Fanti.
Environment
Mar 31, 2025
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Windstorms can seem like they come out of nowhere, hitting with a sudden blast. They might be hundreds of miles long, stretching over several states, or just in your neighborhood.
Environment
Mar 20, 2025
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