Severe Sandstorm Hits Iraq, Hundreds Hospitalized

baghdad - Hundreds suffer from respiratory issues as heavy sandstorm paralyzes parts of Iraq. Airports closed, visibility reduced to under 1 km.

Hundreds Hospitalized Due to Sandstorm

Hundreds of people in Iraq have been hospitalized due to a severe sandstorm sweeping through the country, causing partial paralysis in society.

Extent of Impact

• 700 patients admitted in Muthanna province
• Significant number of patients in Najaf, Basra, Dhi Qar, and Diwaniyah

Images show southern and central cities engulfed in a thick orange haze.

Airport Closures and Poor Visibility

• Basra and Najaf airports shut down
• Visibility drops to less than 1 km

Conditions expected to improve by Tuesday morning local time.

Climate Vulnerability

Iraq, a vulnerable country to climate change, frequently experiences extreme weather and sandstorms. The UN warns of more sandstorms in the future.