Sandstorm in Iraq: 3 Airports Closed

A severe sandstorm that swept through many regions of Iraq on May 16 has led to the closure of three international airports in the country, including Baghdad Airport. This was reported by the Al Sumaria television channel.

According to the channel, in addition to Baghdad Airport, where visibility dropped below the allowable 800 meters to just 300 meters, the airports in Najaf and Sulaymaniyah have also ceased operations. Flight arrivals and departures have been completely suspended until further notice.

According to the latest reports, around 2,000 people have already been affected by the storm, with the majority seeking assistance due to signs of difficulty breathing and suffocation.

Earlier, it was reported that due to the abundant flows of dust being brought by winds from the desert, a non-working day was declared in government institutions in seven provinces of Iraq, including the capital region, on May 16. Scheduled exams in primary and higher educational institutions have also been canceled.

Only emergency services and departments of the republic's health ministry are operational, which has already moved all personnel to maximum preparedness mode due to the adverse weather. Iraq has experienced multiple sandstorms since April, which have led to temporary closures of airports and significant issues for both the general population and relevant ministries and utility services, according to TASS.