Understanding the health impacts of sand and dust storms

Overview

Sand and dust storms (SDS) result from turbulent winds that raise large quantities of particles from the ground into the air in emission areas. Emission areas are typically semi-arid and arid with limited vegetation cover, as bare ground is most susceptible to sediment entrainment by the wind. During SDS, large amounts of particles of a broad range of sizes and chemical composition are uplifted from the soil. SDS have significant impacts on the environment, climate, weather, ecosystems and human health. They are a significant concern that warrants multisectoral action with public health authorities. SDS are recognized as a climatic impact-driver, meaning that they can be considered as a climate hazard in risk assessments.

SDS activity varies widely depending on geographical location, climate conditions and local environmental factors. Major sources include large deserts in North Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Local sources are disturbed landscapes caused by climate factors (such as drought or ice cover reduction), agricultural practices, overgrazing and deforestation.

Understanding the health impacts of sand and dust storms highlights the issue of sand and dust storms and the implications on health. The technical brief summarizes the inter-linkages between sand and dust storms, air pollution, climate change and health and priority actions to protect public health.

This document is part of the WHO Air Quality, Energy, and Health Science and Policy Summaries (SPS). These summaries provide concise overviews of current knowledge and evidence on air quality, energy access, climate change, and health. They aim to support decision-makers by presenting key insights from scientific research.

The SPS are developed through a multistakeholder consultation process that includes experts from WHO Advisory Groups – i.e., the Scientific Advisory Group on Air Pollution and Health (SAG), and the Global Air Pollution and Health – Technical Advisory Group (GAPH-TAG) – as well as specialists from WHO Collaborating Centres, UN agencies as well as other experts from academia and civil society.

All Science and Policy Summaries can be accessed here