Saharan dust storms have been known to impact weather and air conditions in the Americas, particularly in the Caribbean and the southern United States.

The dust storms can cause a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperatures, leading to heatwaves and droughts.

Additionally, the dust can carry harmful bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

The Saharan Air Layer, a mass of dry air that forms over the Sahara Desert, can also suppress hurricane formation and activity in the Atlantic.

However, the dust can also have positive impacts, such as fertilizing remote ecosystems and stimulating the growth of phytoplankton in ocean waters.

Areas in the Americas that have been impacted by Saharan dust storms include the Caribbean, particularly the Bahamas [5], and the southern United States, particularly Texas and Florida.

To prepare for and mitigate the effects of contemporary Saharan dust storms, residents in affected areas can take precautions such as staying indoors, wearing masks, and avoiding strenuous activities.

It is also important for meteorological agencies to monitor the movement and intensity of the dust storms and provide timely warnings and advisories to the public.

Overall, understanding the impacts of Saharan dust storms is crucial for predicting and preparing for their effects on weather and air conditions in the Americas.

Saharan dust storms have been known to impact weather and air conditions in the Americas, particularly in the Caribbean and the southern United States.

Title:

Content: Havana, Cuba.- Cubans are entering the final days of July with a forecast of high temperatures, accompanied by little rain throughout the national territory.

In recent days, the heat punished the inhabitants of the Caribbean island, where through the Institute of Meteorology it was learned that in 38 of the 68 stations subordinate to the scientific entity, temperatures above 34 Celsius degrees were reported.

Meanwhile, the nightly broadcast of the National Television Newscast specified that in the eastern territory of Granma 39°C were registered on Saturday.

Behind it, the most overwhelmed towns were Colón in the western province of Matanzas with 37.2 °C; and Bainoa, in the also western province of Mayabeque, with 36.5 °C; while in the capital the thermometers marked 36 °C.

Days prior to the establishment of these temperature records for the current month, the Institute of Meteorology warned about the arrival of a cloud of dust from the Sahara on the island.

The experts explained that this phenomenon would cause a new decrease in rainfall and would maintain the feeling of great heat.

These clouds contain iron, silica, fungi, bacteria, viruses, various pathogenic mites, among other elements. They can cause acute respiratory diseases, allergies and skin problems.

Dust from the Sahara affects coral reefs, and fruit, rice, sugar cane, bean and other crops. It is caused by storms that occurred in the Sahara desert, coming out of the African continent.

It moves over the freshest and most humid marine air, and joining the flow of the trade winds, it quickly reaches the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The dust storms can cause a decrease in rainfall and an increase in temperatures, leading to heatwaves and droughts.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

lowers rain chances
increases temperature

Additionally, the dust can carry harmful bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

Title:

Content: 03-27-2024

Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive dust storms that originate thousands of miles away in Africa’s Sahara region.

These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.

Dr. Shankar Chellam, a Texas A&M University professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms.

He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.

Hidden passengers in Sahara dust

“We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it’s not fully known as to what causes those allergies,” said Dr. Chellam.

“Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it’s the bacteria and fungi.”

The Saharan dust cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi.

Dr. Chellam’s research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.

What the dust storm from Sahara tells us

Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a Saharan dust event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.

Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium.

While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.

Our air – Not as empty as we think

Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless clouds of dust brim with biological activity.

“A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn’t have a name, it can’t be cultured, and because it can’t be cultured, it’s difficult to study,” explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&M.

The team’s high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren’t active.

Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It doesn’t tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick,” Spalink cautions, “But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust.”

Impact of climate change on Sahara dust

Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity.

In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive Saharan dust storm ever recorded, which experts named “Godzilla.”

This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. “The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes,” said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.

Global connection of Sahara dust

Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways.

This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source.

The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth’s surface.

This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures.

However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature’s complex nutrient cycles.

Benefits to oceans

Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton.

These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life.

The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.

Disadvantages

The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.

For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.

Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.

Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.

Study insights

It’s crucial to gather data across multiple dust events, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.

While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe — travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways.

The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!

The findings of the study are published in Environmental Science & Technology.

—–

Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on EarthSnap, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

—–

News coming your way
The biggest news about our planet delivered to you each day

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

The Saharan Air Layer, a mass of dry air that forms over the Sahara Desert, can also suppress hurricane formation and activity in the Atlantic.

Title:

Content: Saharan dust reaches stunning levels in Atlantic. Here's what that means for hurricane season

Significant Saharan dust plumes are common in the Atlantic during the start of hurricane season. If levels of SAL maintain a steadiness after about Aug. 20, then there would be significant ramifications to both the amount of cyclones and their overall strength.

First, Europe that was socked in by record levels of dust from the Sahara Desert in Africa. The Atlantic appears to have now taken the lead, with dust levels not seen in years across parts of the basin.

Satellite measurements indicate intensive plumes of dust, called the Saharan Air Layer, across much of the eastern Atlantic. Traces of dust have even made the more than 4,000-mile journey to Florida and the Gulf Coast.

Sunrises and sunsets have been enhanced across the Sunshine State as the particles scatter typical colors, allowing hues of orange, yellow and red to dominate the sky.

Aside from the vibrant colors, something not falling from the sky is precipitation.

According to NOAA, the air surrounding the SAL has about 50% less moisture than the typical atmosphere. This means the presence of the SAL can be detrimental to cloud formation and thunderstorm activity.

Significant plumes of dust and dry air are common during the first months of the hurricane season and usually persist through mid-August.

A LOOK AT A PHENOMENON THAT COULD DERAIL AN ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON

How Saharan dust impacts hurricane season

NOAA estimates that more than 180 million tons of dust leave the African continent every year, reducing thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation.

Dry air and Saharan dust are perennial wild cards in tropical weather outlooks, as meteorology has yet to develop sufficient methods to forecast plumes weeks and months in advance.

Years with significant dust often experience reduced cyclone activity. Seasons with minimal dust typically rank at the top echelons of activity, thanks to increased moisture availability for tropical systems and warmer water temperatures.

The current season is a bit unusual as water temperatures started on the warm side across much of the basin, negating any minor effects from a dust storm.

Warm waters and limited exposure to dry air helped with the formations of AlbertoBeryl and Chris during late June and early July.

Since Beryl’s historic trek through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico, the basin has been relatively quiet, a likely product of the increase in dry air.

The trend for limited activity in the Atlantic basin is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, meaning that the next cyclone formation may be weeks away.

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE SAHARAN DUST PLUME

During an average year, the fourth-named storm usually doesn’t form until about Aug. 15, meaning any formation during the next month will keep the season ahead of a typical schedule.

Despite the hostile conditions in the Atlantic, hurricane forecasters at Colorado State University maintain that 2024 will be a busy season in the Atlantic.

CSU released its updated outlook Tuesday, which calls for an additional 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes.

"This forecast is of above-normal confidence. We anticipate a well above-average probability for major hurricane landfalls along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean," CSU forecasters stated during their most recent tropical update. "As with all hurricane seasons, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season."

The season runs through Nov. 30, but nearly 60% of cyclone formation occurs in August and September.

Loading...

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

However, the dust can also have positive impacts, such as fertilizing remote ecosystems and stimulating the growth of phytoplankton in ocean waters.

Title:

Content: Dust storms from the Sahara desert spread invisible allergens around the world
Science and Technology
Copy Link https: / / en.rt.com / x903
Many blame pollen when the allergy season begins, but there are “invisible travelers ” coming from the Sahara and Sahel region, who may be the cause of this allergy.
The huge dust plumes, which originate thousands of miles away in sub-Saharan Africa, travel by dust storms around the world every summer, carrying a mix of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.
Dr. Shankar Chilam, a professor at Texas A & M University, led the task of understanding the biological movers within dust storms.
He and his team are working to identify microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, that migrate with dust and explore their potential impact on human health.
Dr. Chillam ’ s research uniquely addresses how desert dust storms introduced these microbes into North America.
Dr Chillam and his team analysed samples of desert dust that arrived in Houston in 2018, measuring minerals, bacteria and fungi to check for any links.
Surprisingly, their findings revealed strong links between microbial biodiversity and specific elements, especially calcium.
While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara Desert, they are also found in local North American environments.
Identifying the exact source and payload of the dust remains a challenge that scientists continue to face.
Perhaps the most surprising discovery is that even seemingly lifeless dust clouds are full of biological activity.
High-tech DNA analysis allowed the team to create a reservoir of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves were not active.
Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, according to the World Health Organization.
Dr Daniel Spalink, an assistant professor at Texas A & M University, warns: “This doesn ’ t tell us whether they will be able to infect us and make us sick, but at least the DNA of many pathogenic bacteria and fungi has been identified in African dust. ”
Climate change is changing weather patterns globally.
This shift affects the behavior of dust storms, leading to differences in their frequency and severity.
The dust storm in the Sahara travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global ecosystems in profound ways.
The dust, which originates from the vast Sahara desert, is released on transcontinental journeys that affect climate, ocean biology and ecosystems far from its source.
As it travels across oceans and continents, desert dust reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth ’ s surface.
This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the greenhouse effects of greenhouse gases, illustrating how desert dust can affect global temperatures.
Dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, which fertilises remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating complex nutrient cycles in nature.
Ocean biology also benefits from nutrient-rich dust.
When desert dust settles on ocean waters, it provides essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton that form the basis of the oceanic food chain and support a variety of marine life.
Thus, the flow of food from the Sahara could boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.
But the effect of desert dust is not always beneficial, and in ecosystems unusual for the flow of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.For example, excessive dust deposition can strangle corals, block sunlight and hinder photosynthesis.
Moreover, the health effects of desert dust extend across continents, where dust not only carries nutrients but also contaminants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.
Communities in the path of these dust plumes may face increased respiratory problems, allergies and diseases, highlighting the need for surveillance and global health preparedness.
Source: earth.com
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What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

Areas in the Americas that have been impacted by Saharan dust storms include the Caribbean, particularly the Bahamas [5], and the southern United States, particularly Texas and Florida.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

To prepare for and mitigate the effects of contemporary Saharan dust storms, residents in affected areas can take precautions such as staying indoors, wearing masks, and avoiding strenuous activities.

Title:

Content: 0

Layer of Saharan dust will affect the Bahamas by the weekend

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

RESIDENTS are urged to “safeguard their health” as a plume of Sahara dust moves over the south-east Bahamas.

The Department of Meteorology said the dust will gradually move across the country this weekend.

It warned the dust could be problematic for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

“Sahara dust is made of sand, dirt, and other dust particles that are lifted into the atmosphere from the vast Sahara Desert in Africa,” the advisory said.

Acting director of meteorology Jeffrey Simmons told The Tribune the dust tends to appear around this time every year.

He said the dust has lingered around southeastern islands for the past week, prompting some to complain about allergies.

“That’s the reason, you know, why we put out this warning alerting people about it, people who have these allergy issues or any respiratory issues so that they could, you know, be aware of the impact this could have on them for this weekend and possibly going into another week or two,” he said.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What can people do to prepare for dust storms?

It is also important for meteorological agencies to monitor the movement and intensity of the dust storms and provide timely warnings and advisories to the public.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

implement a warning system
public awareness & education

Overall, understanding the impacts of Saharan dust storms is crucial for predicting and preparing for their effects on weather and air conditions in the Americas.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?


The Saharan dust storms have been a recurring phenomenon in the Americas, with significant impacts on weather and air conditions in the region.

These dust storms originate from the Sahara Desert in Africa and travel across the Atlantic Ocean, affecting various parts of the Americas, including the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southeastern United States.

The dust storms carry a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, which can have negative impacts on human health, particularly for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

According to Dr. Shankar Chellam, a professor at Texas A&M University, the Saharan dust storms can introduce these microbes into North America, potentially causing acute respiratory diseases, allergies, and skin problems.

The dust storms can also affect coral reefs, fruit, rice, sugar cane, and other crops, as well as disrupt local environments and ecosystems.

In addition to the negative impacts, the Saharan dust storms can also have positive effects, such as fertilizing remote ecosystems and boosting marine productivity, which can support a diverse array of marine life.

The dust storms can also reflect sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth's surface, and acting as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases.

The areas of the Americas that have been impacted by the Saharan dust storms include the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southeastern United States, with countries such as Cuba, the Bahamas, and the United States being affected.

In Cuba, for example, the dust storms have been known to cause high temperatures, little rain, and increased respiratory problems, particularly in the eastern territory of Granma.

In the Bahamas, the dust storms have been warned to be problematic for people with allergies and respiratory issues, with the Department of Meteorology urging residents to "safeguard their health".

To mitigate the impacts of contemporary Saharan dust storms, appropriate preparations include monitoring weather forecasts and air quality indexes, taking precautions to minimize exposure to dust and pollutants, and being aware of the potential health risks.

It is also essential to have a good understanding of the dynamics of the Saharan dust storms, including their frequency, intensity, and duration, to better predict and prepare for their impacts.

According to NOAA, the air surrounding the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) has about 50% less moisture than the typical atmosphere, which can be detrimental to cloud formation and thunderstorm activity.

The SAL can also reduce thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation, with NOAA estimating that more than 180 million tons of dust leave the African continent every year.

In terms of numbers, the fourth-named storm in the Atlantic basin usually doesn't form until about August 15, but the 2024 season is expected to be a busy one, with 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes predicted.

The season runs through November 30, but nearly 60% of cyclone formation occurs in August and September, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.

Overall, the Saharan dust storms are a significant phenomenon that can have both positive and negative impacts on the Americas, and it is essential to be aware of their potential effects and take necessary precautions to mitigate their impacts.

The Saharan dust storms have been a recurring phenomenon in the Americas, with significant impacts on weather and air conditions in the region.

These dust storms originate from the Sahara Desert in Africa and travel across the Atlantic Ocean, affecting various parts of the Americas, including the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southeastern United States.

Title:

Content: 03-27-2024

Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive dust storms that originate thousands of miles away in Africa’s Sahara region.

These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.

Dr. Shankar Chellam, a Texas A&M University professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms.

He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.

Hidden passengers in Sahara dust

“We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it’s not fully known as to what causes those allergies,” said Dr. Chellam.

“Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it’s the bacteria and fungi.”

The Saharan dust cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi.

Dr. Chellam’s research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.

What the dust storm from Sahara tells us

Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a Saharan dust event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.

Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium.

While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.

Our air – Not as empty as we think

Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless clouds of dust brim with biological activity.

“A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn’t have a name, it can’t be cultured, and because it can’t be cultured, it’s difficult to study,” explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&M.

The team’s high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren’t active.

Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It doesn’t tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick,” Spalink cautions, “But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust.”

Impact of climate change on Sahara dust

Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity.

In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive Saharan dust storm ever recorded, which experts named “Godzilla.”

This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. “The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes,” said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.

Global connection of Sahara dust

Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways.

This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source.

The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth’s surface.

This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures.

However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature’s complex nutrient cycles.

Benefits to oceans

Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton.

These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life.

The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.

Disadvantages

The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.

For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.

Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.

Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.

Study insights

It’s crucial to gather data across multiple dust events, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.

While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe — travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways.

The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!

The findings of the study are published in Environmental Science & Technology.

—–

Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on EarthSnap, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

—–

News coming your way
The biggest news about our planet delivered to you each day

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The dust storms carry a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, which can have negative impacts on human health, particularly for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

According to Dr. Shankar Chellam, a professor at Texas A&M University, the Saharan dust storms can introduce these microbes into North America, potentially causing acute respiratory diseases, allergies, and skin problems.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The dust storms can also affect coral reefs, fruit, rice, sugar cane, and other crops, as well as disrupt local environments and ecosystems.

Title:

Content: Havana, Cuba.- Cubans are entering the final days of July with a forecast of high temperatures, accompanied by little rain throughout the national territory.

In recent days, the heat punished the inhabitants of the Caribbean island, where through the Institute of Meteorology it was learned that in 38 of the 68 stations subordinate to the scientific entity, temperatures above 34 Celsius degrees were reported.

Meanwhile, the nightly broadcast of the National Television Newscast specified that in the eastern territory of Granma 39°C were registered on Saturday.

Behind it, the most overwhelmed towns were Colón in the western province of Matanzas with 37.2 °C; and Bainoa, in the also western province of Mayabeque, with 36.5 °C; while in the capital the thermometers marked 36 °C.

Days prior to the establishment of these temperature records for the current month, the Institute of Meteorology warned about the arrival of a cloud of dust from the Sahara on the island.

The experts explained that this phenomenon would cause a new decrease in rainfall and would maintain the feeling of great heat.

These clouds contain iron, silica, fungi, bacteria, viruses, various pathogenic mites, among other elements. They can cause acute respiratory diseases, allergies and skin problems.

Dust from the Sahara affects coral reefs, and fruit, rice, sugar cane, bean and other crops. It is caused by storms that occurred in the Sahara desert, coming out of the African continent.

It moves over the freshest and most humid marine air, and joining the flow of the trade winds, it quickly reaches the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico.

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on agriculture?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

In addition to the negative impacts, the Saharan dust storms can also have positive effects, such as fertilizing remote ecosystems and boosting marine productivity, which can support a diverse array of marine life.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

The dust storms can also reflect sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth's surface, and acting as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

cools the Earth's atmosphere
reflects sunlight back into space

The areas of the Americas that have been impacted by the Saharan dust storms include the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the southeastern United States, with countries such as Cuba, the Bahamas, and the United States being affected.

Title:

Content: Saharan dust reaches stunning levels in Atlantic. Here's what that means for hurricane season

Significant Saharan dust plumes are common in the Atlantic during the start of hurricane season. If levels of SAL maintain a steadiness after about Aug. 20, then there would be significant ramifications to both the amount of cyclones and their overall strength.

First, Europe that was socked in by record levels of dust from the Sahara Desert in Africa. The Atlantic appears to have now taken the lead, with dust levels not seen in years across parts of the basin.

Satellite measurements indicate intensive plumes of dust, called the Saharan Air Layer, across much of the eastern Atlantic. Traces of dust have even made the more than 4,000-mile journey to Florida and the Gulf Coast.

Sunrises and sunsets have been enhanced across the Sunshine State as the particles scatter typical colors, allowing hues of orange, yellow and red to dominate the sky.

Aside from the vibrant colors, something not falling from the sky is precipitation.

According to NOAA, the air surrounding the SAL has about 50% less moisture than the typical atmosphere. This means the presence of the SAL can be detrimental to cloud formation and thunderstorm activity.

Significant plumes of dust and dry air are common during the first months of the hurricane season and usually persist through mid-August.

A LOOK AT A PHENOMENON THAT COULD DERAIL AN ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON

How Saharan dust impacts hurricane season

NOAA estimates that more than 180 million tons of dust leave the African continent every year, reducing thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation.

Dry air and Saharan dust are perennial wild cards in tropical weather outlooks, as meteorology has yet to develop sufficient methods to forecast plumes weeks and months in advance.

Years with significant dust often experience reduced cyclone activity. Seasons with minimal dust typically rank at the top echelons of activity, thanks to increased moisture availability for tropical systems and warmer water temperatures.

The current season is a bit unusual as water temperatures started on the warm side across much of the basin, negating any minor effects from a dust storm.

Warm waters and limited exposure to dry air helped with the formations of AlbertoBeryl and Chris during late June and early July.

Since Beryl’s historic trek through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico, the basin has been relatively quiet, a likely product of the increase in dry air.

The trend for limited activity in the Atlantic basin is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, meaning that the next cyclone formation may be weeks away.

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE SAHARAN DUST PLUME

During an average year, the fourth-named storm usually doesn’t form until about Aug. 15, meaning any formation during the next month will keep the season ahead of a typical schedule.

Despite the hostile conditions in the Atlantic, hurricane forecasters at Colorado State University maintain that 2024 will be a busy season in the Atlantic.

CSU released its updated outlook Tuesday, which calls for an additional 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes.

"This forecast is of above-normal confidence. We anticipate a well above-average probability for major hurricane landfalls along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean," CSU forecasters stated during their most recent tropical update. "As with all hurricane seasons, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season."

The season runs through Nov. 30, but nearly 60% of cyclone formation occurs in August and September.

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Title:

Content: 0

Layer of Saharan dust will affect the Bahamas by the weekend

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

RESIDENTS are urged to “safeguard their health” as a plume of Sahara dust moves over the south-east Bahamas.

The Department of Meteorology said the dust will gradually move across the country this weekend.

It warned the dust could be problematic for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

“Sahara dust is made of sand, dirt, and other dust particles that are lifted into the atmosphere from the vast Sahara Desert in Africa,” the advisory said.

Acting director of meteorology Jeffrey Simmons told The Tribune the dust tends to appear around this time every year.

He said the dust has lingered around southeastern islands for the past week, prompting some to complain about allergies.

“That’s the reason, you know, why we put out this warning alerting people about it, people who have these allergy issues or any respiratory issues so that they could, you know, be aware of the impact this could have on them for this weekend and possibly going into another week or two,” he said.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

In Cuba, for example, the dust storms have been known to cause high temperatures, little rain, and increased respiratory problems, particularly in the eastern territory of Granma.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

lowers rain chances
increases temperature
lowers air quality

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

In the Bahamas, the dust storms have been warned to be problematic for people with allergies and respiratory issues, with the Department of Meteorology urging residents to "safeguard their health".

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

implement a warning system
public awareness & education

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

To mitigate the impacts of contemporary Saharan dust storms, appropriate preparations include monitoring weather forecasts and air quality indexes, taking precautions to minimize exposure to dust and pollutants, and being aware of the potential health risks.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

It is also essential to have a good understanding of the dynamics of the Saharan dust storms, including their frequency, intensity, and duration, to better predict and prepare for their impacts.

According to NOAA, the air surrounding the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) has about 50% less moisture than the typical atmosphere, which can be detrimental to cloud formation and thunderstorm activity.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

The SAL can also reduce thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation, with NOAA estimating that more than 180 million tons of dust leave the African continent every year.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

In terms of numbers, the fourth-named storm in the Atlantic basin usually doesn't form until about August 15, but the 2024 season is expected to be a busy one, with 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes predicted.

The season runs through November 30, but nearly 60% of cyclone formation occurs in August and September, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.

Overall, the Saharan dust storms are a significant phenomenon that can have both positive and negative impacts on the Americas, and it is essential to be aware of their potential effects and take necessary precautions to mitigate their impacts.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on the ecosystems?

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?


Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, also known as MBS, has been instrumental in introducing a series of social and economic reforms in Saudi Arabia since his appointment as Crown Prince in 2017.

His vision for 2030 aims to reduce the country's dependence on oil and diversify its economy, as well as promote social and cultural development.

One of the key reforms introduced by MBS is the restriction of the powers of the religious police, which has helped to curtail the influence of the Wahhabi religious establishment.

MBS has also taken steps to improve women's rights, including allowing women to drive and participate in the workforce, as well as introducing laws to protect women from domestic violence.

According to a study, MBS's philosophy of management is based on inclusivity, modernization, and boldness, and has been successful in achieving the goals of Vision 2030.

The Vision 2030 plan has also led to an increase in foreign investment, with Saudi Arabia aiming to attract $2 trillion in investments by 2030.

Additionally, MBS has introduced reforms to promote tourism and entertainment, including the development of new tourist destinations and the hosting of international events.

Overall, MBS's reforms have had a significant impact on Saudi Arabia, and have helped to promote social and economic development in the country.

The Saudi youth are also supportive of MBS's vision, with 99% of young Saudis believing that Vision 2030 will ensure a strong economy for the Kingdom.

However, despite these reforms, there are still concerns about human rights and women's rights in Saudi Arabia, with some critics arguing that more needs to be done to address these issues.

Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, also known as MBS, has been instrumental in introducing a series of social and economic reforms in Saudi Arabia since his appointment as Crown Prince in 2017.

His vision for 2030 aims to reduce the country's dependence on oil and diversify its economy, as well as promote social and cultural development.

Title:

Content: Friday 23rd September 2022 Abu Dhabi UAE
Prayer times
News Highlights
Today 's Issue
Today 's Issue
Arabic & International
King Salman.
A journey of reform and development
King Salman.
A journey of reform and development
September 23, 2022 02: 33
Ahmed Murad (Cairo)
Saudi Arabia ’ s 92nd National Day celebrations coincide with the eighth anniversary of the pledge of allegiance to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia, as King of Saudi Arabia on January 23, 2015.
Over the past eight years, he has achieved a long series of unprecedented achievements and reforms, making him one of the most prominent and important historical leaders of Saudi Arabia.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud was sworn in as King of Saudi Arabia on January 23, 2015, succeeding the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. King Salman began his reign by affirming his determination to continue the achievements witnessed by Saudi Arabia in the last three decades, implement an integrated reform and development program, promote the Kingdom ’ s domestic and foreign policy, and take positive positions on various local, regional and international issues.
Almost 70 years ago, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud began his career in public work, after being appointed Acting Prince of Riyadh Region on March 16, 1954, at the age of 19, and the following year he was appointed Governor and Prince of Riyadh Region with the rank of Minister. It has grown and flourished, making it a regional hub for travel and trade, and is home to millions of Saudi nationals and expatriates from all over the world to work within the Kingdom.
During his tenure in the Emirate of Riyadh, King Salman paid great attention to improving the level of infrastructure, where he oversaw the implementation of dozens and hundreds of infrastructure projects that made Riyadh a “global city ” with standard specifications and standards through the establishment of a network of highways and modern, as well as the establishment of many vital facilities, such as schools, hospitals, universities, museums, sports stadiums and recreational cities.
Mandate of the Covenant
In a new phase of King Salman bin Abdulaziz ’ s career, he was appointed Minister of Defense in November 2011, and the following year, on June 18, 2012, he was appointed Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister, retained his position as Minister of Defense, and worked to modernize and develop the Saudi Armed Forces, which witnessed a remarkable leap in training and armament, as well as implementing a comprehensive plan to develop the entire sectors of the Ministry of Defense.
Development Programs
Over the past eight years, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has been keen to implement comprehensive and integrated development programs to advance Saudi Arabia politically, economically and socially, and has achieved many achievements and reforms at various levels, which made Saudi Arabia ranked by the World Bank among the top 20 reformers in the world, and ranked second among the top high-income countries and G20 countries in terms of implementing business climate improvement reforms.
In the second year of his leadership, King Salman launched the Kingdom ’ s Vision 2030 on April 25, 2016, to be at the forefront of the development programs he adopted in order to achieve comprehensive national development, reduce the Kingdom ’ s dependence on oil, diversify sources of income through a package of economic reforms unprecedented in the Kingdom ’ s history, achieve financial stability, and other development programs that contributed to the increase in non-oil revenues by 15%, reduce the budget deficit by 48% foreign investment by 130%.
Under the patronage of King Salman, the Kingdom ’ s Vision 2030 has succeeded in achieving many achievements in the first five years, specifically during the period between 2015 and 2020, and with the beginning of 2021, a new phase in the process of achieving Vision 2030 began.
In the framework of this new phase, the National Investment Strategy was issued on October 11, 2021, which is expected to contribute to the growth of the national economy and diversify its sources, thus achieving many of the objectives of Vision 2030, including raising the contribution of the private sector to GDP to 65%, boosting foreign direct investment to 5.7% of GDP, increasing the proportion of non-oil exports from 16% to 50% of GDP, and reducing the unemployment rate to 7%.
Under the umbrella of the National Investment Strategy, investments of more than 12 trillion riyals will be injected into the local economy until 2030.
The biggest budget
For the first time in the history of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the trend began under King Salman towards approving the general budget of the Kingdom by supporting and developing the national economy without relying mainly on oil as the sole source of national income, which was ranked by observers among the most important achievements in the history of the Kingdom.
In 2019, King Salman announced the largest budget in the history of the Kingdom, spending more than 1.1 trillion riyals, and revenues amounted to 975 billion riyals.
Saudi Arabia, led by King Salman, has transformed the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) into a sovereign fund with assets estimated at $2 trillion to $2.5 trillion, making it the largest sovereign fund in the world.
In the petroleum sector, Saudi Aramco announced in 2021 plans to produce 2 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas from the giant Jafoura field by 2030, making the kingdom the third largest natural gas producer in the world.
Health and Education
King Salman has paid great attention to the health and education sectors, and the two sectors witnessed an unprecedented boom during the reign of King Salman through the implementation of many projects. In the health sector, several health centers were launched in the last eight years, including 4 for cardiac catheterization, 7 for tumors, 3 for obesity and its diseases, 5 for behavioral and developmental disorders, as well as the launch of 4 surgical robots specialized in general surgeries, urology and artificial intelligence laboratory. For health technical research, and to raise the level of health services provided by 600 health centers by applying the Wasfti system.
Work has also begun on the first robotic-mediated smart pharmacy at King Fahd Specialist Hospital in Tabuk.
In the education sector, King Salman has adopted several programs and plans to develop education and make a real renaissance in this vital sector. In this context, his decision came to merge the Ministries of Education and Higher Education into one ministry under the name of the Ministry of Education, allocate special programs for talented students, open special centers for the development of technical and engineering sciences in 32 schools across the Kingdom, and launch the “Your Job and Mission ” program. You come back after they come back.
On November 14, 2021, the Kingdom announced the launch of Prince Mohammed bin Salman City, the first non-profit city in the world, which aims to support young Saudi talents, and work to encourage learning and develop leadership skills among young people.
Blue oil.
The desalination industry has seen an unprecedented boom, as the kingdom has set records in the industry making it the world ’ s largest desalinated water producer and is expected to become a major hub for desalination technologies in the world, the Middle East and beyond, leading observers to call the industry a “new Saudi blue oil. ”
Saudi Arabia ’ s production of desalinated water currently stands at more than 9 million cubic meters per day, with production expected to reach more than 14 million cubic meters per day in 2025.
The Saudi Saline Water Conversion Corporation manages 33 desalination plants, including 8 on the Arabian Gulf coast and 25 on the Red Sea coast, and in 2018 won the award of the largest desalination system in the world from the Guinness World Book.
National Projects
Over the past eight years, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has adopted an expanded work map that included a package of giant national projects, most notably the establishment of Neom Industrial City (Oxagon), the largest floating structure in the world. The city is based on the same concepts as The Line communities launched in January 2021. 13% of world trade.
This is in addition to a giant project to redevelop the waterfront in the center of Jeddah ’ s Corniche with the aim of transforming it into a vital area, the King Salman Energy City project known as “Spark ”, with investments estimated at $1.6 billion, and the Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport project with a capacity of more than 8 million passengers annually in its first phase, and 40 million passengers annually in the third phase.
In addition to the development of the petrochemical sector in Ras Al Khair Industrial City, the establishment of some other industrial cities, such as Jubail and Yanbu, and the development of a city for the automotive industry in order to attract investments, increase exports and provide jobs, and the repair of more than 4 million square meters of road networks.
In the housing sector, many housing projects have been implemented during the past eight years, including the provision of more than 282 residential products including housing units, land and subsidized financing to promote and develop the real estate sector in various regions of the Kingdom, as well as regulating the rental market and preserving the rights of parties during the rental process through the adoption of the “Ejar ” program.
Dar Al-Hijra is one of the most important residential projects launched during the reign of King Salman, and is one of the largest residential, hotel and commercial projects in Saudi Arabia, including 20 administrative towers, 80 residential towers, 80 hotels providing 40,000 rooms for pilgrims, as well as government, administrative and commercial offices accommodating 31,000 employees, a 400-bed hospital and a huge transit station.
King Salman is keen to develop the various regions of the Kingdom and achieve comprehensive development in them, and in this context, strategic offices were established in October 2021 to develop the areas of Al-Baha, Al-Jawf and Jazan, as well as the launch of a strategy to develop the Asir region by pumping 50 billion riyals in various investments.
All rights reserved to Al Ittihad Newspaper 2022 ©

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To lessen reliance on oil.
To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

One of the key reforms introduced by MBS is the restriction of the powers of the religious police, which has helped to curtail the influence of the Wahhabi religious establishment.

Title:

Content: Moderate ideology: The silent Saudi revolution

Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

Published: 25th July 2023 12:34 AM  |   Last Updated: 25th July 2023 12:45 AM   |  A+A-

It has been ‘work in progress’ for some time now. Saudi Arabia is changing the tone and texture of its ideology from what has always been considered obscurantist to something that keeps with the times. Sports events, movie screenings, art exhibitions and music concerts are becoming increasingly common in the kingdom, and Saudi citizens are lapping them all up.

The kingdom has rapidly secured its position as a centre for cultural events, art exhibitions and film screenings. The nation’s Vision 2030 envisages and fully supports the expansion of the entertainment market to SR30 billion. Almost every domain of entertainment for which Saudi citizens earlier travelled far and wide is now available at home. This is thanks to a break from the past that the de facto ruler, Mohammad bin Salman (MbS), the Crown Prince, has initiated. It makes eminent sense in a nation seeking to develop itself beyond the energy sector with three visionary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy and continuity in terms of ambition in comprehensive development.

All this translates into a modern civilisational outlook with technology, intellectualism, private investment, trade, tourism, academics and more, all becoming the prime domains of functioning. The traditional worldwide perception of Saudi Arabia as the centre of the obscurantist ideology of Islam and a nation with an anti-reformist outlook has persisted, and not without reason. A brief understanding of this is important to appreciate the degree of change that Prince MbS has been able to generate.

As the custodian of the Holy Shrines of Mecca and Medina and the land where Islam’s first message was delivered, the Saudi rulers and clergy have always been all-powerful, even more so after adopting the core ideology expounded by Saudi thinker Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab. There is a long history behind this.

A virtual pact between the powerful clergy and the Royal Family has existed to promote the Wahhabi ideology in return for the powers that the Royals enjoyed. The pact saw enhanced clergy power after 1979 when the Shia Revolution occurred in Iran, the Saudi Ikhwan attempted a takeover of the Holy Shrine at Mecca, and the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Wahhabi ideology was about going back to the basics and making the faith much less tolerant by supporting ‘Takfir’, or the power of declaration of a believer as an apostate if Wahhabi tenets are not adhered to. The militant part of the ideology started to come to the fore after 1979. From segments of the Arab world to Afghanistan, Pakistan, parts of India, Indonesia, Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, militancy promoting the Saudi brand flourished, giving rise to the notion of a clash of civilisations.

Saudi Arabia’s energy resources always dictated US policy. A grey zone existed here with simultaneous US support to Israel and Saudi Arabia, stacked primarily against Iran and the collective Arab will against Israel. A couple of factors brought the trigger for change. Among them were the discovery of shale gas in the US and the progressive decline in US dependency on Saudi energy resources. Second was the dwindling Saudi economy and the realisation that in an energy-based economy, without expansion into other domains of economic development, such as trade, technology, tourism, investments, entertainment and intellectual research, Saudi Arabia would waste its opportunities and resources. The tremendous advantage of being the centre of the Islamic world could give it enduring leadership status if it could neutralise the rising militancy within Islam. Nations all around, such as the UAE, had fully utilised their possessions and drawn major economic attraction due to pragmatism followed in all domains, including faith issues. The position of women in Saudi society, in particular, had a damning effect on the nation.

Nothing changes without a leader and a vision. Saudi Arabia was fortunate to get MbS, although his personal equation with the US has remained strained for various reasons, not the least being the Khashoggi factor. However, none of that has affected his intent of modernising the nation and for that, a more moderate form of Islam within the kingdom is necessary. To his credit, he has convinced the clergy of the need to follow his vision, which will also project Islam differently to many others who follow the Saudi guidelines on faith.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, from Saudi Arabia, who recently visited New Delhi for six days, is the Secretary General of the Muslim World League. The organisation was once at the forefront of promoting obscurantist ideology but is now transformed, as is evident from Sheikh al Issa’s message in New Delhi. The Sheikh’s belief which he transparently shared is that a whole generation of Muslims has grown up with an ideology that has given them a negative view of other faiths and an intolerantly sectarian understanding of their own.

In his several meetings with intellectuals, leaders and clergy from diverse faiths in India, he emphasised the role of the clergy in any faith. He admitted that Islam had earned a bad name for itself due to the acts of a few and the refusal of the followers to condemn those acts. He spoke of the role of family and education and decried religious teachers’ unsupervised education of young Muslim children. He mentioned that when intolerance and militancy were rising, people feared confronting them. His most poignant argument was that such obscurantism and militancy cannot be eliminated in the typical military way; they have to be removed from the roots by narratives stronger than the ones expounded.

Sheikh Al-Issa’s visit to India was symbolic of what appears to be the fading of the intolerant and militant element of Islam, but we cannot read too much into this. That change is taking place at the ideological centre is positive, but there is no guarantee of permanency. It is also not necessary that the message from Saudi Arabia is gelling with the vast Muslim populations worldwide. These populations are enmeshed with their local cultures and unlikely to follow examples. What is true is that a message supporting reformation has emanated from the nation considered the custodian of the shrines and, by many, of the faith. Nurturing this and taking it beyond is now the challenge.

Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd)

Former Commander, Srinagar-based 15 Corps. Now Chancellor, Central University of Kashmir

(atahasnain@gmail.com)

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How has the role of the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice changed under Muhammad bin Salman?

Has been reduced to morality awareness campaigns and COVID-19 efforts.

No longer acts as the de facto religious police.

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

What is one of the first priorities of Vision 2030 regarding ideological extremism?

Combating extremist and ideological thinking

MBS has also taken steps to improve women's rights, including allowing women to drive and participate in the workforce, as well as introducing laws to protect women from domestic violence.

Title:

Content: Despite the government ’ s alleged reforms,
Widespread violations of women ’ s rights in Saudi Arabia
Sunday 01 January 2023 - 05: 52 GMT
The widespread German network Deutsche Welle has highlighted the persistence of widespread violations of women ’ s rights in Saudi Arabia despite alleged government reforms.
World - Saudi Arabia
Saudi authorities continue to discriminate against women as second-class citizens with an unchanging authoritarian guardianship system and strict disobedience laws and rules that restrict the rights of unmarried women.
Since Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman launched the so-called “social and economic reform ” dubbed Vision 2030 in April 2016, the status of women has changed dramatically, with the network seeing that some laws were in favor of women and others headed for the worse.
While women activists like Loujain al-Hathloul were jailed for three years following a drive for women to drive, the relevant legislation was changed in 2018 — and according to research firm Statista — within a year and a half, more than 175,000 women applied.
Driving license in Riyadh.
Other laws have been amended since 2018, meaning women are now allowed to apply for a passport without the consent of a male guardian and go to cinemas with their boyfriends.
Lina al-Hathloul, the sister of women ’ s activist Loujain al-Hathloul, who is the head of communications and surveillance at the London-based ALQST Human Rights Organisation, said: “The regime of repression is still in place ” in Saudi Arabia.
Because of the male guardianship system, girls and women still rely on male guardian consent for most decisions.
In case of disobedience, these guardians, who could be fathers, husbands, brothers or sons, are entitled to be sent to so-called “care homes ” — forever, al-Hathloul said.
Moreover, this year, three court rulings starkly emphasized the Saudi ambivalence between men and women.
In January, a court in the city convicted Yasser M.
Verbal sexual harassment of a woman.
He was sentenced to eight months in prison and a fine of 5,000 rials (1,265 euros / $1,330).
Yasir M was one of the first cases to be convicted following the tightening of Saudi legislation to combat sexual harassment in 2019.
But in August, PhD student Salma al-Shehab, 34, was sentenced to 34 years in prison, and a month later Noura bint Saeed al-Qahtani was sentenced to 45 years in prison.
Both were convicted of retweeting human rights calls.
“The result is fear — people no longer know what the red lines are, ” said al-Hathloul. For her, the liberation of women ’ s rights over the past four years is nowhere near what Saudi women really want.
“We want to live in Saudi Arabia without fear and be able to claim our rights. ”
According to the 2019 Women, Peace and Security Index (WPS), Saudi Arabia ranks lowest globally.
According to the index, female labor force participation remains low across the region despite a rapid rise in female education rates and improved access to health care.
Women hold only 16 per cent of legislative seats in MENA countries compared to 25 per cent globally.
Certain States actively suppress women's rights by persecuting women's rights activists.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Saudi Arabia, where authorities arbitrarily arrest and detain women ’ s rights leaders with impunity.
The authorities of the House of Saud, a legitimate permanent resident of the United States, arrested Aziza al-Yousef in May 2018 on charges related to her peaceful human rights activism.
Despite her provisional release in March 2019, Ms. Al-Yousef cannot leave the Kingdom due to pending charges in court.
Source: Saudi Leaks

How has Vision 2030 affected women's rights and workforce participation?

Strengthened women's rights
gender equality

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

What new permissions have Saudi women gained under Mohammed bin Salman's rule?

According to a study, MBS's philosophy of management is based on inclusivity, modernization, and boldness, and has been successful in achieving the goals of Vision 2030.

Title:

Content: Study: The Crown Prince ’ s philosophy of management is a compass for the Kingdom ’ s renaissance and achievements within the framework of “Vision 2030 ”
She said he takes a strategic approach based on inclusivity, a duality of modernization, originality, boldness and realism.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
Al-Qarar Center for Media Studies has issued a new study that provides an analytical reading of the philosophy of His Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the administration, which represents a compass for the Kingdom ’ s renaissance and its successes and achievements within the framework of the pioneering development vision “Saudi Vision 2030 ”.
This came in conjunction with the celebration of the fifth anniversary of the pledge of His Highness as Crown Prince.
The study was based on the monitoring and analysis of a series of speeches, speeches, meetings, statements and statements of His Highness the Crown Prince (may God protect him), the number of which reached (16) articles during the period from 2018 to the current year 2022.
The study concluded with a set of results, including the Crown Prince ’ s adoption of a strategic approach to management based on several pillars, most notably comprehensiveness in approach, dual modernization and originality, boldness and realism, in addition to uniqueness and excellence, universality of presentation, as well as openness to all, and always looking forward.
The study pointed to the adoption of His Highness the Crown Prince in his speeches and statements primarily on logical probabilities in the process of influence and persuasion, through addressing the mind with evidence and proofs, using the language of numbers, logical reasoning, and comparisons between the past, present and the future, in addition to proving what has been achieved on the ground effectively, and citing the reports of international institutions.
The study pointed out that Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may Allah support him, is betting in achieving the comprehensive development process on the Kingdom's own capabilities, especially the great Saudi people.
She pointed out that the language of his speech includes many central actors, which he always mentions clearly, most notably the Saudis, especially the young men and women of the Kingdom, as well as the economic, social, cultural and civilizational potential of the Kingdom, as well as the regional and international status of the Saudi state, whether at the economic, political or Islamic level.
The decision center study concluded that HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may God protect him, follows a philosophy based on inclusiveness and renewal in all aspects of life, noting that HRH was able to convey the conviction of his comprehensive development project "Vision 2030" to every Saudi citizen, which made the people united in order to achieve the desired progress.
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What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

The Vision 2030 plan has also led to an increase in foreign investment, with Saudi Arabia aiming to attract $2 trillion in investments by 2030.

Title:

Content: PM, Saudi Royal court adviser discuss ways to boost economic ties

Pakistan

They reviewed the progress on the Saudi investment in Pakistan

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RIYADH (APP) - Adviser at the Royal Court and General Secretary of Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif here on Saturday and discussed the ways to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

Both sides expressed exceptional warmth for further promoting economic relations between the two countries. They reviewed the progress on the Saudi investment in Pakistan, during the visit of the delegation led by Saudi foreign minister to Pakistan.

Al-Tuwaijri and his delegation expressed deep interest in the Saudi investment by the Saudi government and companies in Pakistan.

He said after the visit of Saudi Foreign Minister to Pakistan, work had started on priority basis on the Saudi investment in Pakistan.

The work has started on war footing in investment in Pakistan, which includes investment from both the public and private sectors, he added.

He said a delegation comprising Saudi business community and investors would soon visit Pakistan.

Al-Tuwaijri, who is In Charge of the Vision 2030 of Saudi Arabia, told the prime minister in detail about the said project.

He said, “We want that the economic relations of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia should move forward in the backdrop of Saudi Vision 2030.”

According to the Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia would provide all kinds of assistance for providing training to the Pakistan workforce and government officials.

A detailed briefing was given to the prime minister on the reforms agenda of Saudi Arabia.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan wanted to benefit from the successful reforms policy of Saudi Arabia to modernise governance structure of Pakistan.

He said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had fraternal relations which were strengthening with the passage of time, adding economic relations of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had entered a new phase.

He said notable progress was made regarding investment in different sectors in Pakistan by Saudi Arabia, during the visit of the delegation led by Saudi foreign minister.

“We are moving with a lightning speed after the progress made during the visit of the Saudi delegation to Pakistan,” he added.

The PM said the people of Pakistan had immense regard and respect for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques His Excellency King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

He thanked the Saudi Crown Prince and the Prime Minister for their warm welcome and magnificent hosting.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Petroleum Musadiq Malik, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Power Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Jehanzeb Khan and high level officials were also present.

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What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

To attract foreign investment
To diversify Saudi Arabia's economy

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Additionally, MBS has introduced reforms to promote tourism and entertainment, including the development of new tourist destinations and the hosting of international events.

How has Saudi Arabia diversified its economy under Vision 2030?

What are some of the key goals of Vision 2030 for society and economy?

allow recreational activities; Saudi women benefit from relaxed restrictions

What are the main goals of the 2016- launched Vision 2030?

What has MBS done since becoming Crown Prince in Saudi Arabia?

Overall, MBS's reforms have had a significant impact on Saudi Arabia, and have helped to promote social and economic development in the country.

Title:

Content: Saudi youth: Vision 2030 guarantees a strong economy and a better future
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Saudi Arabia ’ s 92nd National Day celebrations, under the slogan “We Have a Home ”, will be an important occasion during which almost all Saudi youth show confidence that the Kingdom is moving in the right direction and that their coming days are better, as revealed by the results of the 14th annual ASDA ’ A BCW Arab Youth Survey announced yesterday.
Almost all young Saudis surveyed (99%) are confident that Vision 2030 will ensure a strong economy for the Kingdom, while a similar 97% believe their next days are better, while they also believe that the Kingdom ’ s economy is moving in the right direction, nine out of ten believe they will have a better life than their parents. Jobs and economic growth.
Recent government reforms to the private sector are very popular among Saudi youth, with 96% saying they support measures that stimulate private sector participation in the national economy, 93% saying they strongly support reforms that encourage citizens to play a greater role in the business sector, while more young Saudis say they prefer business over government jobs and a quarter (23%) say they would like to work independently or with their families....
Equal rights
In the face of Western stereotypes of Saudi Arabia, more than two-thirds of young Saudis (68%) say men and women have equal rights, 61% say they have equal employment opportunities, and 96% believe a greater presence of women in the labor market will benefit the kingdom.
More than two-thirds of Saudi youth (69%) believe religion is the most important element in expressing their identity, 82% believe that preserving their religious and cultural identity is more important than building a more globalized society. At the same time, three-quarters of young Saudis (79%) say religion plays too much of a role in the Middle East.
High Popularity
For their part, Saudi youth are among the most prominent users of social media.
Their most popular platforms are WhatsApp (98%), Snapchat (84%), YouTube (83%), Twitter (73%), TikTok (60%), and Facebook (55%). The popularity of Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter has risen to 60%, while the daily use of Facebook has dropped from 82% in 2020 to 55%, and social media is the most prominent news source for 43% of Saudi youth surveyed, followed by television 27% and electronic sources 23%.
The number of Saudis who shop online has doubled over the past five years, with 58% saying they buy products and services online and social media at least once a month in 2018, to almost all respondents who said they currently shop online.
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