Dust and sand storms : Characteristics , vulnerability, awareness and preparedness

ABSTRACT

This paper provides a review and analysis of dust storm phenomena in may parts of the world. The study investigates their types, general characteristics, hazards, preparedness and their relation to atmospheric elements. A suggested mechanism of dust storm formation is discussed as well as detailed study of dust storms of desert depression type, including some case studies. The results show the importance of descending motion for true dust storms and that the transverse indirect circulation may play an important role in these phenomena. The relationship between dust storms over China and the suppression of the Walker cell, as a result of El Niño events, is also discussed. (AU)