Sand and Dust Storms Affect 330 Million Across 150 Countries

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reports that over two billion tons of sand and dust enter the atmosphere annually, affecting more than 330 million people across 150 countries and causing significant health and economic consequences. Although the total amount of dust slightly decreased in 2024, the impact on humans, ecosystems, and economies is increasing due to factors like land degradation and water mismanagement. Dust storms predominantly originate from North Africa and the Middle East, with particles traveling thousands of kilometers, such as from the Sahara to Europe and from Mongolia to China, demonstrating the transboundary nature of these storms. WMO estimates that nearly half the global population has been exposed to dust levels exceeding World Health Organization safety thresholds, with exposure increasing by 31% between 2003-2007 and 2018-2022. Economic costs are substantial, with the U.S. alone incurring an estimated $154 billion in damages in 2017 from dust and wind erosion, underscoring the often underestimated financial burden of these storms. Global efforts are underway to coordinate practical actions and recommendations to address the rising challenges posed by sand and dust storms at both regional and international levels.