Saudi Arabia Records Lowest Dust Storm Activity in 25 Years
NCM reports near-zero dust events in June 2026, driven by greener land and improved forecasting
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Saudi Arabia recorded its lowest dust and sandstorm activity in more than 25 years during June 2026, with dust events falling 99% below the historical average, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM).
The NCM said June saw almost no dust and sandstorms across the Kingdom, marking the lowest level recorded since monitoring began more than two decades ago.
NCM Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ayman Ghulam said the findings were based on the June report issued by the Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms.
According to the report, the Northern Borders region recorded a 100% drop in dust storm activity, while central Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Qassim and Al Kharj, saw a 99% decrease. The Eastern Province, including Al Ahsa, Dammam and Dhahran, also recorded a 99% decline.
The center said this sharp drop was linked to several environmental and weather factors. These included the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom’s cloud seeding program, better vegetation cover, improved grazing management, and weaker weather fronts that usually cause dust and sandstorms during this period.
The Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms continues to monitor dust activity using advanced forecasting and observation systems. These include satellite data, AERONET aerosol monitoring, LiDAR technology, numerical forecasting models, and dust sampling and analysis equipment.
The center said these tools help improve early warning services and forecast accuracy, support authorities, and reduce the impact of dust storms on public health, the environment, and economic activity.
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