A dust storm is a weather event characterized by strong winds that lift and carry large amounts of dust and sand from the ground into the air. These storms typically occur in arid and semi-arid regions, where loose, dry soil is abundant. Dust storms can reduce visibility significantly, making travel dangerous, and can also affect air quality, posing health risks to people with respiratory issues. Dust storms are often associated with drought conditions and can be triggered by human activities such as agriculture and deforestation. They can travel long distances, impacting areas far from their origin. In severe cases, dust storms can lead to soil erosion and damage to crops, affecting local ecosystems and economies.