Table of Contents
How can you be safe in a dust storm?
Health precautions
- Avoid outdoor activity.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth to reduce exposure to dust particles.
- Avoid vigorous exercise, especially if you have asthma, diabetes or a breathing-related condition.
- Stay indoors, with windows and doors closed.
What do you do in a dust storm at home?
Regular Preparation
- Trim Your Trees.
- Keep the Roof in Good Shape.
- Put Away Umbrellas and Other Potential Hazards.
- Keep Windows and Doors Shut During Storm.
- Turn Off the A/C.
- Clean and Maintain Your Air Conditioner.
- Increase Ventilation To Help Remove Airborne Dust.
- Use an Indoor Air Purifier.
Is it safe to be outside in a dust storm?
Since small particles of dust can still get inside, take the same precautions you would if you were caught outside, including protecting your nose, mouth, and eyes. Do not attempt to go outside until the storm is over.
What conditions are needed for a dust storm to form?
Dust storms arise when a gust front or other strong wind blows loose sand and dirt from a dry surface. Fine particles are transported by saltation and suspension, a process that moves soil from one place and deposits it in another.
What are the effects of a dust storm?
What are the health effects of dust storms? Common symptoms that you may experience during a dust storm include: • Itchy or burning eyes; Throat irritation; • Skin irritation; • Coughing or sneezing; and/or • Respiratory or breathing difficulties, including asthma attacks.
What happens in a dust storm?
Dust storms are caused by very strong winds — often produced by thunderstorms. In dry regions, the winds can pull dust from the ground up into the air, creating a dust storm. These two features allow winds to build up momentum, causing the winds to grow stronger and drive more dust into the atmosphere.
What should you do in a dust storm while driving?
Since dust storms are a common occurrence in Dubai, it is best to mentally prepare yourself for the scenario.
- Take your vehicle off the highway.
- Turn off your vehicle lights.
- Stay updated.
- Check Visibility.
- Stay Indoors.
- Choose your vehicle wisely.
- Clean your car thoroughly.
- Proper Vehicle Maintenance.
What do you wear to a dust storm?
If you must go out in a dust storm, wear some type of covering over your nose and mouth to provide some protection. Breathe through a wet face cloth or coat the nostrils with a small amount of petroleum jelly to minimize drying of mucous membranes. Wear neckerchiefs and bandannas to protect the head and face.
Is a dust storm a natural disaster?
The immediate economic impact of dust storms is significant, but it doesn’t rival major natural disasters that destroy entire cities. Some dust storm activity can be prevented, but dust storms will always be an integral part of the natural ecosystem.
What do you do in a sand storm?
DURING A SANDSTORM: If dense dust is observed blowing across or approaching a roadway, pull your vehicle off the pavement as far as possible, stop, turn off lights, set the emergency brake, take your foot off of the brake pedal to be sure the tail lights are not illuminated.