Ibrahim Muhammad Badawood

Al Madina

 

A dust storm recently hit several regions of the Kingdom  and disrupted transportation. Civil Defense received reports of accidents caused by strong gusts of wind and heavy dust.



Work at schools and universities was suspended, flights at airports were disrupted with some delayed and others cancelled, and travelers were left stranded.



As a result, some airlines arranged for alternative transport via buses and coaches. The heavy dust caused many people to seek medical help for asthma and breathing difficulties. Some signboards and trees also fell down.



These occurrences in certain regions of the Kingdom remind us of the heavy rains and floods that hit the Kingdom a few years ago and caused many accidents and fatalities.



It should be noted that the unexpected weather conditions no longer surprise us because the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment Protection sends us early warnings against such harsh weather elements and urges us to take precautions.



Whether the difficulties are floods, heavy rain or sandstorms, there is one thing that is crucial.



The authorities need to organize further campaigns to raise public awareness about the precautionary steps they need to take when the weather turns for the worse.



Drivers should exercise caution in low visibility. Passengers should also take certain measures when flights are delayed.



The general populace should protect themselves against dust, floods and heavy rain.



The public should be aware of what to do in emergencies. People can suffer immensely if the weather turns bad.



The relevant government bodies need to take precautionary measures when they receive weather reports showing bad weather.



These reports are issued well ahead of a possible sandstorm, heavy rains and strong winds.