Health emergency declared as dust storm engulfs southern Iraq's Najaf province

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – A severe dust storm has swept across southern Iraq's Najaf province, triggering a health emergency and prompting urgent action from authorities. The province's Director General of Health, Abdullah al-Ghazali, has declared a state of emergency in response to the hazardous conditions.

In a statement reported by the official Iraqi news agency, Ghazali emphasized the critical need to safeguard public health amidst the onslaught of dust. All health centers in Najaf province have been placed on high alert to respond swiftly to any health issues arising from the environmental crisis.

The director general's directive extends to emergency departments, vehicles, and essential medical equipment, including provisions for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma. With the dust storm showing no signs of abating, ensuring sufficient oxygen supplies is paramount to addressing the escalating health concerns.

Originating in Diwaniya province, the dust storm has relentlessly engulfed southern Iraq for two days, wreaking havoc on communities and infrastructure along its path. As residents grapple with reduced visibility and respiratory distress, the situation underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of environmental hazards.

Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to minimize health risks posed by the ongoing dust storm. With climate change exacerbating such extreme weather events, concerted efforts are required to build resilience and adapt to the evolving environmental challenges facing Iraq and the wider region.