The sprawling metropolis, housing a population of over 20 million, was engulfed by a sudden darkening of the sky as a colossal sandstorm, characterized by immense orange billows, swept through its thoroughfares.
Amidst the violent winds, an advertising billboard succumbed to the forces of nature, crashing down onto a motorbike and a car with devastating consequences. Regrettably, one person lost their life in the incident, while five others suffered injuries of varying degrees. This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather conditions.
The sandstorm's impact extended beyond the city limits, as two Red Sea ports located along the renowned Suez Canal were compelled to cease operations. The forceful gusts of wind surpassed speeds of 50km per hour, accompanied by towering waves exceeding four meters in height. These ports play a pivotal role in facilitating approximately 10% of global maritime trade, highlighting the significance of this disruption.
In response to the adverse weather conditions, the Egyptian Ministry of Health promptly issued an advisory to the residents of Cairo. They emphasized the importance of wearing masks and minimizing outdoor activities, aiming to mitigate potential health risks associated with the sandstorm.
As Cairo copes with the aftermath of this calamitous sandstorm, authorities and citizens alike are left to assess the damages caused and work towards restoring normalcy in the affected areas. (ILKHA)