Tajikistan is bracing for a significant dust storm expected to impact several regions from October 31 to November 3, according to the country's Hydrometeorology Agency (Hydromet).
The storm is forecast to affect areas including the Khatlon province, the districts subordinate to the center (RRP), and the capital city, Dushanbe. Carried by winds from the south, southwest, and west, the storm will lead to a noticeable decline in air quality across these regions.
Meteorologists warn that the atmosphere will be heavily saturated with suspended dust particles, including fine particulate matter known as PM10 and PM2.5 — tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose health risks.
In light of the hazardous conditions, the agency advises residents to limit their time outdoors, especially near high-traffic roads, where pollution levels may be more concentrated.
Meanwhile, residents of the city of Istaravshan in the northern province of Sughd have already begun to feel the storm’s effects since October 29. Social media users shared videos showing thick clouds of dust sweeping through the city as strong winds lifted sand and dry leaves high into the air.
“This is the kind of weather we're dealing with in Istaravshan — a full-blown dust storm with strong winds,” commented one user. The footage, submitted by a follower, has sparked widespread concern online. The news outlet Dushanbe Post invites others to share similar videos via their Telegram channel @dushanbe_post.
