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How Do Sandstorms Occur?

A sandstorm is a windstorm that causes a large quantity of sand particles to move through the air at high speeds. Sandstorms pick up sand from one region and deposit it in different regions. Sandstorms can reduce visibility, making traveling difficult. They are also capable of burying roads, covering plants and killing them as well as relocating sand dunes. Sandstorms, like other types of storms, require the proper conditions in order to form.

  1. Conditions

    • Sandstorms occur in arid regions that are largely covered by sand. Plants and plant roots help sand stay in place, so areas with large amounts of plant life will not be affected by sandstorms. When heavy winds blow over dry, sandy areas, the grains of sand are lifted by the winds. The grains rise and fall repeatedly, breaking into smaller and smaller particles. These tiny particles are swept up into the wind and carried long distances.

    Locations

    • Although the majority of sandstorms occur in the Sahara and the Arabian peninsula, sandstorms can occur anywhere there is dry weather and sandy topsoil. Sandstorms can even occur in areas that are typically not dry if they are experiencing dry weather. Areas that commonly experience sandstorms include Afghanistan, China, Egypt and Syria.

    Predicting Sandstorms

    • In the past, predicting sandstorms was impossible. Thanks to modern technology and experienced meteorologists, however, it is now possible to predict some sandstorms. The ability to forecast sandstorms depends on a country's available technology. Predicting sandstorms allows for proper preparation, which reduces the impact of the storm and gives people a chance to prepare. Early prediction came in handy in northern China in 2002 when the country was hit with a bad sandstorm. Scientists were able to tentatively forecast where the storm would hit nearly three days beforehand.

    Safety

    • If you're ever caught in a sandstorm, the first thing you need to do is cover your eyes, nose and mouth. Use protective goggles for your eyes so you don't experience any eye damage from the flying sand. Your mouth and nose should be covered with a cloth so you don't inhale the sand. Mark the direction in which you were travelling, then seek out shelter until the storm dies down. Radio transmissions may be interrupted during the sandstorm, so make sure you have an alternate means of communication.

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