The latest series of dust storms in south-eastern Iran have sent more than 2,000 people to hospitals and raised concerns about the growing impact of climate change in the region. The province of Sistan and Baluchestan has been particularly hard-hit, with thousands seeking medical treatment as a result of these severe dust storms.
Majid Mohebi, the director general of the provincial Crisis Management Office, reported that a total of 2,107 individuals have sought medical assistance in hospitals and medical centers across five cities in the province in recent weeks. Respiratory, heart, and eye conditions have emerged as major health issues among the affected population.
Tragically, three lives have been lost due to these dust storms, with reduced visibility cited as a contributing factor in these fatalities. In addition to immediate health concerns, dust storms have been linked to the potential for strokes and various forms of meningitis, underscoring the serious consequences of poor air quality.
Dust storms have become increasingly common in Iran over the past two decades, posing threats not only to public health but also to agriculture and critical infrastructure. As a response to the reduced visibility, authorities have been put on standby to assist motorists navigating through these hazardous conditions.
In light of the escalating dust storm situation, schools and offices in Sistan and Baluchestan were forced to remain closed during the weekend, coinciding with the start of the academic year, further disrupting daily life in the region.
These events are indicative of Iran’s vulnerability to the effects of climate change. Deforestation and prolonged droughts have exacerbated dust storms, posing serious risks to both human health and the environment. The Iran Meteorological Organization estimates that nearly 97 percent of the country is grappling with some degree of drought.
Furthermore, last week, cities along the Caspian Sea, including Astara, experienced severe flooding, with some areas witnessing the heaviest rains in a century. These contrasting weather events—dust storms and heavy rains—highlight the volatile climate conditions in Iran, which continue to challenge local communities.
Last year, flash floods affected 21 out of 31 provinces in the country, resulting in the tragic loss of almost 100 lives. It is evident that Iran’s struggle with extreme weather events and climate-related challenges is ongoing, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive climate adaptation and mitigation measures. Researchers and experts are also increasingly warning about the potentially “disastrous” health consequences as climate change continues to fuel dust storms across the Middle East.
