Dust Winds Expected Across Egypt on March 17th

Dust-laden winds are expected to affect several parts of Egypt on March 17th, with forecasters warning that the conditions could reduce horizontal visibility and pose risks for people with respiratory conditions.

The advisory was issued by the Climate Information Center at the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, which indicated that strong gusts carrying sand and dust are likely to return after a brief easing of conditions observed on March 15th.

The expected weather follows a broader period of instability that began on March 12th and intensified on March 13th and 14th.

During the peak of the system, winds reaching approximately 40 to 50 kilometres per hour stirred sand and dust across several regions, including Greater Cairo, the Nile Delta, the Canal cities, and northern Upper Egypt. Dust storm conditions were also reported in western desert areas such as Siwa, the oases, Farafra, and the New Valley.

Temperatures rose noticeably during the period before rainfall of varying intensity affected northern parts of the country, with heavier showers reported in some locations.

Although conditions began to gradually ease on March 15th, suspended dust remained in the atmosphere ahead of another wave of dusty winds forecast for scattered areas on March 17th.

Officials advised residents to limit travel on desert roads and highways during dusty conditions and to keep windows closed while securing loose objects on rooftops and balconies.

Individuals with asthma or allergies were encouraged to remain indoors where possible and to use protective masks if they need to go outside.

Farmers were also advised to take precautions, including completing irrigation before the strongest winds, avoiding foliar spraying during gusty conditions, reinforcing vulnerable fruit tree branches, and securing greenhouse coverings, solar panels, and light equipment against strong winds.