A severe dust storm has struck various areas in East Al-Oweinat in the New Valley Governorate of Egypt, today, Sunday. Its effects intensified on highways, causing reduced visibility and declining vehicle traffic due to poor sight, negatively impacting the flow of cars. The governorate announced a state of readiness to face adverse weather conditions, taking all necessary precautions and coordinating among city and neighborhood heads along with the operations center of the governorate. The traffic department warned drivers and advised them to exercise caution, especially travelers on the highways.
For his part, Major General Dr. Mohamed Al-Zamlout, Governor of the New Valley, confirmed the increased state of alert at the operations room in the governorate and the crisis and disaster committee at various centers and towns within the governorate. Coordination with all relevant authorities is underway in anticipation of consequences resulting from high winds affecting electricity continuity, with a daily report being prepared on weather changes and full readiness for ensuing impacts.
The Al-Oweinat area had recently witnessed heavy rainfall that reached the level of floods in most villages, alongside cloud formation over the southern regions of the governorate. Maximum preparedness has been raised across all centers, with the activation of branch operations rooms in anticipation of bad weather fluctuations. The disaster and crisis room in the governorate is continuously convening, collaborating with all relevant entities, and taking all necessary measures to address any emergencies until weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, traffic and police forces have increased their presence on main roads and public squares, anticipating potential accidents due to strong winds in exposed and extreme areas across the country. The crises and disaster management department at the New Valley Governorate has warned citizens of the adverse weather, characterized by winds stirring up dust, dirt, and sand, urging citizens to be cautious while driving on desert and agricultural highways to ensure the safety of all and avoid road accidents.
They also warned against walking under billboards next to old and dilapidated houses and trees, to prevent collapse during citizens' presence and movement, ensuring safety for everyone. Additionally, they cautioned the public against touching light poles and electricity kiosks to avoid electrical shocks or power line interruptions due to the dust storms.
