The end of May signals the start of the Al-Bawarih season and heavy dust storms in 6 Arab countries.

As May approaches and June begins, the eastern regions of the Arabian Peninsula gradually begin to be affected by the Al-Bawarih wind season, one of the most prominent dry summer climatic patterns, which is characterized by active northwesterly winds carrying dust and raised sand.

The Shamal winds record speeds that may exceed 55 km/h, while gusts of wind may sometimes reach more than 80 km/h, leading to a noticeable decrease in horizontal visibility, especially in desert and exposed areas.

How are the Al-Bawarih winds formed?

These winds arise as a result of clear differences in atmospheric pressure, where atmospheric pressure is high in the eastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea, in contrast to its low pressure in the eastern Arabian Peninsula, which pushes the winds to rush from the northwest towards the southeast, carrying dust.

Where do the Al-Bawarih winds occur?

Dust storms usually start in southern Iraq, later affecting Kuwait, then extending to the eastern parts of Saudi Arabia and the central regions, and their effects may reach the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

When does the season start?

The Al-Bawarih wind season usually begins at the end of May and continues until July, forming one of the most prominent features of the summer season in the region.

These winds are expected to cause a decrease in air quality and a reduction in horizontal visibility, which calls for caution, especially for respiratory and allergy sufferers, in addition to the possibility of affecting land and air transport at certain times.