Strong dust-laden winds have swept through the Libyan city of Tawergha, significantly reducing visibility on main roads and turning the sky and evening light into shades of yellow and orange due to the heavy concentration of airborne sand and particles.
The weather conditions are part of a wider wave of atmospheric disturbances affecting several areas in western Libya, bringing intense gusts that carry large amounts of dust and fine sand across open spaces and highways. Drivers have reported sharply limited visibility, particularly on exposed routes outside urban centers, where blowing الرمال can quickly obscure traffic signs and road markings.
Meteorological sources say the dust storm is driven by strong pressure gradients over the region, generating fast-moving winds capable of lifting vast quantities of desert الرمال into the lower atmosphere. Such conditions not only disrupt transport but also pose health risks for people suffering from respiratory conditions, as fine particles remain suspended in the air for extended periods.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind activity, especially in open and desert-adjacent areas where sudden gusts can cause near-zero visibility. Residents are also advised to keep windows closed and limit outdoor activities until the weather stabilizes.
Western Libya has experienced similar episodes in recent weeks as seasonal weather patterns shift, with forecasters warning that further dust storms may occur in the coming days, potentially affecting coastal and inland cities alike.