A fierce sandstorm lashed across parts of North Africa and eastern Mediterranean affecting life and property in the region. Winds reaching 100kmph engulfed the Middle East region causing widespread inconvenience in major cities. The storm was made up of dust traveling from the depths of Sahara Desert in North Africa and was triggered by a strong low pressure system moving through the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Winds from the periphery of the system pulled both sand and dust from North Africa towards Egypt and then eastwards.
The raging sandstorm first hit Egypt as the Cairo International Airport was temporarily closed down. It affected the city of Cairo for two days. Also, strong waves triggered by the storm forced Egypt to close two of its seaports as well. The Suez Canal was also closed down for shipping. The storm was so severe that it even caused a cargo ship on the Greek coast to run aground.
On Wednesday, the sand traveled to Israel and Lebanon, resulting in highest worst pollution levels in years. Flights in Israel were suspended temporarily. Fierce winds emanating out of the system also brought large waves into Beirut's Cornice near the Mediterranean Sea. Waves damaged the Cornice’s handrails and smashed the sidewalks. Electricity and internet services were also disrupted.
While such sandstorms are not uncommon for Egypt during this time of the year, the intensity of the storm did affect day-to-day life in the country. The intensity of the storm made the air turn orange in colour, as in some areas, people were forced to walk backwards in order to escape the gusty sandy winds.
