I’ll provide a brief summary on these storms and “dot point” the basic do’s and don’ts.
Understand What’s Coming Your Way
Technically, dust and sand storms are one in the same. They start out as a gust front (a moving line of high winds) which passes over exposed areas of dry soil or sand. These fine particles are blown aloft and kept suspended in a cloud which rolls along at the head of the front. Once the front passes, the high winds and flying debris will abate, and the air will gradually clear.
What’s the Danger?
The potential for injury is specific to the flying debris. Flying tree branches, sheet metal, roof tiles, etc, are direct threats to life. Flying sand can score/burn skin and injure eyes. Dust can clog airways, lungs and cause asthma attacks. Debris can also build up in depressions and windward sides of walls, burying whoever or whatever is taking shelter. Particles like water droplets, sand and dust will all attract an electrical charge while swirling around in a cloud, so there is always a risk of lightning strikes.
Forewarned is Forearmed
As weather modeling improves, so does weather forecasting. Government agencies such as the National Weather Service (USA) and the Bureau of Meteorology (Australia) track and forecast severe weather and communicate warnings to the media for broadcast to the public. Take heed of these warnings and follow the advice. There is nothing wrong with also keeping a “weather eye on the sky” as an extra precaution.
If You Have Shelter
•Secure your pets and stay indoors until the storm passes.
•Close and secure all doors and windows.
•Keep vents closed and turn off air conditioners.
•Do not light fires or other activities that generate carbon monoxide.
If You Are in a Vehicle
•Locate a safe place to park, like a sheltered car park or rest stop.
•Put the car in gear, apply the hand/foot break, secure doors and windows, close all vents and turn off engine.
•If parked in an exposed location, try parking with the car’s back to the wind. This will limit the amount of dust or sand that will find its way into the engines air filter.
If You Are on Foot
•Seek a place to shelter safely. Even a wall or leeward side of a hill will provide some protection. It is not advisable to shelter under a tree in high winds, or if you see lightning or hear thunder.
•Put your back to the wind and try to find a garment that will cover your head, including the back of your neck and mouth. If needed, pull up your shirt and bend your head down into the shirt.
•If you have goggles or glasses, put them on to protect your eyes.
•If you are caught in a flat open field, present the minimum profile to the wind (lie down, curl up in a ball, with your back to the wind.
Once again, this is just “my” summary, so have a look on the Internet for more detail. Also, if your car is covered in dust, get it thoroughly washed before it rains. Add a little water and this stuff sets like concrete!
