Increased drought due to climate change has turned sand and dust storms into a global threat by increasing both their frequency and intensity.
Medianews.az reports that these natural phenomena, affecting approximately 3.8 billion people, pose serious health risks.
According to scientists, dust storms are observed more frequently particularly in the arid regions of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. These storms increase air pollution and millions of people are exposed to these dust particles daily.
Professor Murat Türkeş from Boğaziçi University of Turkey stated that drought zones are expanding due to climate change and new sources of dust storms are emerging. He noted that this process significantly affects the Mediterranean region, including Turkey.
According to scientists, about 25 percent of dust storms are related to human activities, with their main sources being the deserts of North Africa, Arabia, and the Middle East. These particles can be transported thousands of kilometers by air currents.
Experts say that sand and dust storms reduce not only the climate quality but also agriculture, water resources, and productivity.
Doctors warn that these storms can cause diseases like asthma, COPD, tuberculosis, heart attacks, strokes, and even meningitis. Small dust particles can penetrate deep layers of the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Risk groups include children, the elderly, chronic patients, and people who work outdoors. Long-term exposure increases chronic heart and lung problems.
Doctors recommend on dust storm days:
- avoiding going into the desert;
- keeping windows closed;
- using N95 or FFP2 masks;
- and drinking plenty of water.
Scientists also deem it essential to strengthen the fight against climate change, increase afforestation projects, and expand measures such as rainwater harvesting.
Medianews.az