Iraq
Dust storms are becoming more frequent due to the climate crisis, according to Iraq’s meteorological office. File photo: AA
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Dust and dropping temperatures are in the four-day forecast for southern and central Iraq.
"Dust storms are forecasted in central and southern regions,” said the national meteorology agency. "Temperatures will drop slightly overall. Horizontal visibility will be 6-8 km, and in dusty conditions 2-4 km."
Dust storms are a familiar seasonal challenge in Iraq, but their frequency and intensity have worsened due to long-term drought, expanding desertification, and rising temperatures. Researchers warn that agricultural land and inhabited areas could soon be threatened unless urgent measures are taken.
During dust storms, thousands of people are hospitalized with breathing difficulties.
According to the environment ministry, Iraq has recorded an average of 272 dusty days annually over the last two decades. That figure could rise to 300 days per year by 2050 if current trends continue.
Iraq is considered among the countries most vulnerable to climate change.
Comments
Rudaw moderates all comments submitted on our website. We welcome comments which are relevant to the article and encourage further discussion about the issues that matter to you. We also welcome constructive criticism about Rudaw.
To be approved for publication, however, your comments must meet our community guidelines.
We will not tolerate the following: profanity, threats, personal attacks, vulgarity, abuse (such as sexism, racism, homophobia or xenophobia), or commercial or personal promotion.
Comments that do not meet our guidelines will be rejected. Comments are not edited – they are either approved or rejected.
Post a comment