The Kingdom recorded an almost zero decline in dust and sandstorms during June 2026 by 99%, recording its lowest rate.

The National Center for Meteorology attributed this retreat to environmental initiatives and weak air fronts.

Retreat of dust storms

The CEO of the National Center for Meteorology and General Supervisor of the Regional Center for Dust and Sand Storms, Dr. Ayman Ghulam, explained that the Kingdom recorded an almost zero retreat of dust and sandstorms during June 2026, the lowest historical rate in more than 25 years, with a 99% decrease compared to historical averages. The Northern Borders region recorded a complete retreat of 100%, an indicator reflecting the noticeable improvement in air quality and decline in dust phenomena.

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This came during his review of a report issued by the Regional Center for Dust and Sand Storms for June. The report indicated that the Central region recorded a 99% decline, including Riyadh, Al-Qassim, and Al-Kharj, while the Eastern region recorded the same percentage, including Al-Ahsa, Dammam, and Dhahran.

Improvement in weather conditions

The data recorded during June showed dust activity reaching its lowest levels compared to historical averages, coinciding with a number of environmental and climate efforts in the Kingdom, foremost of which are the Saudi Green Initiative, cloud seeding program, improvement of vegetation cover, regulation of grazing, in addition to weak air fronts causing dust and sand during the same period, reflecting a clear improvement in weather conditions. The Regional Center for Dust and Sand Storms continues its monitoring, follow-up, and analysis of spatial and temporal indicators of dust phenomena through an advanced monitoring and prediction system including satellite data, Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) systems, specialized LiDAR systems, advanced numerical models for predicting dust spread, modern devices for collecting and analyzing dust samples, in addition to a specialized electronic portal for data and research. He noted that these capabilities support the development of monitoring, prediction, and early warning services at the regional and international levels, contribute to supporting relevant authorities, enhance preparedness for weather fluctuations, and reduce the impact of dust and sandstorms on health, environment, and economic activities.