Dustfall Associated with Dust Storms in the Al-Ahsa Oasis of Saudi Arabia

A severe dust storm in the Al-Ahsa Oasis, Saudi Arabia, in March 2014 resulted in extreme dust deposition, with average concentrations of total suspended particles (TSP) reaching 6772 μg/m³ during a peak 10-hour period. Visibility dropped to as low as 200 meters, accompanied by wind speeds of up to 17.5 m/s from the north. The study quantified dustfall at 12.84 g/(m²·d), with dust samples comprising nearly equal parts insoluble (48.5%) and soluble (51.5%) components. Microscopic analysis revealed particles of varied sizes, colors, and composition, including fibers and vegetative debris. This research highlights the significant impact of dust storms on agricultural and industrial infrastructures in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing critical data for understanding dustfall dynamics.

Almuhanna, E. A. (2015). Dustfall Associated with Dust Storms in the Al-Ahsa Oasis of Saudi Arabia. Open Journal of Air Pollution, 04(02), 65–75. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojap.2015.42007