Over 1,000 people hospitalised after sandstorms hit southeast Iran

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Over 1,000 people have been hospitalized in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province due to severe sand and dust storms, according to local officials. The hospitalizations occurred following a series of storms that affected the region, particularly cities such as Zabul, Hamoun, Hirmand, and Nimroz.

The individuals admitted to hospitals have experienced respiratory difficulties, heart issues, and problems with eyesight. Sistan-Baluchestan, located near the Pakistan border, is known for its arid climate, making it prone to dust and sand storms.

Rising temperatures and prolonged drought in the area have led to the evaporation of surface water, including the Hamoun wetlands, exacerbating the situation. Last summer, Iran faced heavy sand and dust storms and increased air pollution, resulting in the closure of educational institutions and government offices in some cities, including Tehran.

Jafar Jandaqi, the director general of the environmental center at Iran’s Health Ministry, highlighted that over 38 million people in Iran are at risk due to exposure to sand and dust storms, which can lead to heart diseases and disrupt daily activities and public transportation. The United Nations has recognized the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms on July 12, emphasizing the significant challenge they pose to sustainable development on economic, social, and environmental fronts.

« Back to Page

• Here’s what you need to know about the new alert foreign office has issued for eighteen nations

• Iran eyes inbound and domestic tourists in its free zones

• Israeli-Iran Conflict Affecting Deeply on Airline Operations Along with Global Travel Industry

• Khuzestan emerges as top tourist destination in Spring

• Airlines changes routes after Israel’s attack on Iran