WMO Reports Persistent Sand and Dust Storm Activity in 2023 Despite Regional Variability

Key findings from the report underscore the significant environmental, economic, and health impacts of SDS events, exacerbated by poor land and water management practices.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released its annual report highlighting the prevalence and impacts of sand and dust storms (SDS) worldwide in 2023. While the year saw sand and dust concentrations above the long-term average in many regions, there was a slight decrease compared to 2022, indicating regional variability in storm severity.

Key findings from the report underscore the significant environmental, economic, and health impacts of SDS events, exacerbated by poor land and water management practices. These storms, which spanned vast areas including Mongolia, northern China, and parts of East Asia, affected millions of square kilometers and multiple countries, disrupting daily life and causing substantial reductions in air quality.

According to WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, climate change and human activities contribute significantly to SDS occurrences. Higher temperatures, coupled with drought and poor land management, create conditions conducive to increased storm frequency and intensity. Improved monitoring and forecasting through systems like the WMO Sand and Dust Storm Warning Advisory and Assessment System (SDS-WAS) are crucial for enhancing early warnings and preparedness.

Despite these challenges, there are positive aspects to SDS phenomena. The report highlights how Saharan dust deposition in the Atlantic Ocean contributes essential nutrients like iron and phosphorus, benefiting marine ecosystems and supporting fisheries management. This process underscores the complex interplay between atmospheric processes and marine biodiversity.

In 2023, the WMO noted notable SDS events across several regions, including East Asia, where intense storms in March-May severely impacted air quality and transportation. Similarly, persistent dust outbreaks in the Sahel and Gulf of Guinea regions during autumn and winter exacerbated visibility issues and air quality concerns.

The report also emphasizes ongoing efforts to improve dust forecasting and assessment capabilities globally. More than 25 organizations contribute to the SDS-WAS, integrating satellite observations and seasonal forecasting models to provide timely and accurate information to various sectors, including agriculture, aviation, and public health.

Looking ahead, the WMO urges continued international cooperation and investment in sustainable solutions to mitigate the impacts of SDS events. Enhancing regional collaboration, capacity building, and resilience-building measures are essential steps toward reducing vulnerability and safeguarding communities from the adverse effects of sand and dust storms.

The WMO's comprehensive analysis serves as a critical resource for policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders working to address the multifaceted challenges posed by sand and dust storms in an increasingly interconnected global environment.