According to the latest report from the United Nations meteorological agency, significant dust incursions occurred in North Africa and the Middle East in 2025, which worsened air quality and reduced visibility.
Strongest episode in China
However, China recorded the most severe incident in terms of intensity, geographical scope, and duration. In April 2025, a dust storm originating in Mongolia covered the country, pushing concentrations of inhalable particles to levels significantly exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.
Consequences of dust storms
The organization warns that sand and dust storms negatively affect agricultural productivity, disrupt ground and air transport, overload water supply and energy systems, and damage ecosystems.