Saandstorms from North Africa hit Türkiye

Sandstorms coming from North Africa are affecting the Turkish metropolis of Istanbul, as well as the provinces of Alanya, Mersin, Adana, and Hatay in southern Turkiye,CE Report quotes BTA.

According to Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Toros from the Department of Climatology and Meteorological Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ), the sandstorms that have impacted the Istanbul region since yesterday are expected to last until Sunday and may be accompanied by "mud rain," caused by the mixing of sand with rainfall.

Toros stated that this natural phenomenon is normal for the spring season in Turkiye and may cause the air to take on a red or yellow tint due to the high concentration of sand particles.

He advised residents and visitors to limit time spent outdoors, as prolonged exposure may lead to skin and eye irritation, as well as breathing difficulties.

According to Anadolu Agency, "mud rain" fell overnight in the Alanya region, staining cars, buildings, and other outdoor surfaces.

Reports of reddish skies and accumulations of fine dust due to the sandstorms have also emerged from the provinces of Mersin, Adana, and Hatay.

Meteorologists say the effects of the sandstorms in southern Turkiye are expected to subside by the end of the day.