Sandstorm

A sandstorm is a meteorological phenomenon characteristic of arid and semi-arid regions and occurs mainly in hot weather. A sandstorm is caused by the blowing of sand and dust particles into the air and can last from a few minutes to several days. A sandstorm can pose a threat to human health, such as weakening the respiratory system or the immune system.

Preparing for a sandstorm:

- if you live in a windy, dusty or sandy area, be prepared for a storm;

- if you are traveling, note that sandstorm warning signs are usually posted in sandstorm-prone areas;

- follow a sandstorm warning;

- stay indoors after a sandstorm warning;

- if you have to stay in the open air for a long time in case of a sandstorm, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants to protect your body and wear a special mask and protective glasses to protect your face;

- don't go out unnecessarily.

If you are outdoors during a sandstorm:

- keep in mind that even a small amount of dust in the air can cause eye irritation, vision problems, and breathing difficulties;

- cover your mouth and nose with a special mask and wear protective glasses;

- if there is no mask, cover your mouth and nose with a cloth or towel;

- if you do not have glasses, cover your eyes with your hands or cover your head with a cloth, towel, clothing, etc.

- apply a small amount of Vaseline to the inside of the nasal cavities to prevent the nose's mucous membrane from drying out;

- go to a higher place if there is no threat of lightning, because the densest concentration of sand or dust is in the lower area;

- protect yourself from various possible items blown by the wind. For this purpose, find any large stones, rocks, etc., that you can use as a shelter. Protect your head with a bag, pillow, etc.;

- get to the nearest shelter as soon as possible before the sandstorm reaches you and stay there;

- if you are indoors, close the doors and windows, wait for the sandstorm to pass;

- if you are in a group, hold hands and do not move away from each other;

- if someone must leave the group, rope him or her in with the group members so he can go back.

If you are in a car during a sandstorm:

- if you see a sandstorm (fog-like dust) in the distance, try to move away from it;

- remember that the direction and speed of the storm can change unexpectedly;

- if you can't get away from the storm, leave the highway, stop the car in a windproof and safe area, turn off the exterior lights and wait for the storm to end inside the car;

- if you cannot leave the highway, turn on the headlights and hazard warning lights, reduce speed and continue driving in the direction of the storm, pressing the signal from time to time;

- close the windows and turn off the ventilation system that supplies air to the car from the outside.