Title: Severe Dust Storms and Air Pollution Hit 17 Iranian Provinces – Weather Alert Issued
Nationwide Weather Warning as Dust and Storms Disrupt Air Quality
The Iranian Meteorological Organization has issued a weather alert, warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread dust storms across 17 provinces, including Tehran, until Sunday. The adverse conditions are expected to significantly reduce air quality and visibility.
Regional Forecast: Storms, Rain, and Rising Dust
According to synoptic maps and weather projections, northern regions—including West and East Azerbaijan, coastal areas of the Caspian Sea, and parts of the Alborz Mountains—will experience increased cloud cover, heavy showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Meanwhile, other parts of the country will remain clear.
Over the next five days, convective cloud formations, rain showers, and thunderstorms are anticipated in southern Sistan and Baluchestan, elevated areas of southern Hormozgan, and parts of Kerman and eastern Fars. Additionally, strong winds, dust storms, and deteriorating air quality are expected in southeastern Fars, southwestern Kerman, and parts of the central and northeastern regions.
Cross-Border Dust Aggravates Pollution
Dust particles originating from neighboring western and southern countries are predicted to worsen air pollution in northern Sistan and Baluchestan, eastern regions, and parts of central Iran. Over the next three days, the Strait of Hormuz, the Oman Sea, and the Caspian Sea are also expected to experience turbulent conditions.
Affected Provinces and Potential Risks
Wednesday, July 3:
Khorasan Razavi, South Khorasan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Kerman, Yazd, Isfahan, Semnan, Qom, Alborz, Tehran, southern West Azerbaijan, southern East Azerbaijan, Kurdistan, Kermanshah, Ilam, Khuzestan, and Bushehr.
Thursday to Saturday, July 4–6:
Ilam, Khuzestan, Bushehr, southern and eastern Khorasan Razavi, South Khorasan, Yazd, Semnan, northern and eastern Isfahan, Tehran, Alborz, Qom, and northern and eastern Sistan and Baluchestan.
Health and Safety Advisory
Authorities warn of:
- Respiratory risks for vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
- Transport disruptions due to reduced visibility.
- Structural hazards, including potential damage to temporary installations and falling debris.
Recommendations:
- Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in open areas.
- Secure lightweight structures and avoid parking near unstable trees.
- High-risk individuals should minimize outdoor exposure.
The Meteorological Organization continues to monitor two active weather systems, urging citizens to stay informed on further updates.
