RIYADH: Various parts of the Kingdom, including the central, northern and eastern regions, could be hit by heavy sandstorms as a result of strong winds coming from Iraq this week, the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment (PME) said on Sunday.
The PME said winds of 31 kmph could contribute to stirring sandstorms similar to the one that hit the Kingdom several months ago. PME officials said this does not mean sandstorms will happen for sure, but warned people of low visibility in the event of one taking place.
Muhammad Babaydan, head of weather analysis and forecasts at the PME, said people who suffer from respiratory illnesses must take precautions. “People who suffer from asthma as well as the elderly and children should cover their faces with respirators or masks that are able to filter out sand particles,” said Babaydan, adding that they could also use moistened handkerchiefs or bandannas.
Motorists who travel by night are asked to stay home or delay their trips until the weather becomes stable. “It is advisable that they postpone trips to avoid accidents due to poor visibility,” Babaydan added.
PME sources added that a SMS service exists to notify people about sudden changes in the weather.
A heavy sandstorm that hit the region last March enveloped the cities of Riyadh and Dammam in an orange blanket. The ensuing visibility problems resulted in traffic chaos and disrupted air traffic for more than 12 hours.
Abdullah Ahmad, a teacher in his 30s who was planning to travel to Makkah on Sunday, decided to delay his trip after receiving the warning message. “I was planning to head for Makkah with my wife and kids but heard there would most likely be a sandstorm in the coming days. Now I’ve delayed my trip by a week,” he said.
