Sandstorms

A sandstorm is a wild storm that happens in deserts. Strong winds pick up sand from the ground and carry it through the air. The sky turns orange or brown, and it gets hard to see. Sandstorms can last for hours and cover everything in sand.

Where Sandstorms Happen

Sandstorms happen mostly in dry desert places. The Sahara Desert in Africa has many sandstorms every year. Parts of the Middle East and Asia also get them. Strong winds blow across the loose sand and lift it into the air. Sometimes the sand can be blown thousands of miles away.

Dangers of Sandstorms

Sandstorms can be very dangerous to people and animals. The flying sand can hurt eyes and skin. Breathing in sand can make people sick. Cars and planes have trouble moving during sandstorms. People in the desert wear scarves and goggles to protect themselves when a storm comes.

Fun Facts

• Sand from the Sahara has been blown all the way to South America.
• A big sandstorm is called a haboob in Arabic.
• Some sandstorms are so big you can see them from space.

Did You Know?

Sand from the Sahara Desert actually helps the Amazon rainforest grow. The wind carries minerals in the sand that feed the plants thousands of miles away.