Sandstorm: Egyptians advised to stay home as skies turn orange

CAIRO -16 January 2019: Egyptians are advised to stay home and avoid exposure to a heavy sandstorm that hit the country at its peak on Wednesday, forcing several parks and zoos across the country to close its doors.

Pictures of Cairo skies changed color to orange as the dust storm hit intensively.


Egyptians are advised to stay home and avoid exposure to a heavy sandstorm that hit the country at its peak on Wednesday - Hussein Talal /Egypt Today

The official weather forecast authority warned of unstable weather last week to last until Wednesday, with expectations of slight improvement on Thursday.

Northern parts of the country witness active wind, and low temperature causing disruption to marine navigation of both the Mediterranean and Red seas.


Egyptians are advised to stay home and avoid exposure to a heavy sandstorm that hit the country at its peak on Wednesday - Hussein Talal /Egypt Today

Experts said that Cairo and Lower Egypt cities are expected to witness rainfall during the day.

Traffic Authority advised drivers to avoid high speed during the storm due to low visibility.


Egyptians are advised to stay home and avoid exposure to a heavy sandstorm that hit the country at its peak on Wednesday - Hussein Talal /Egypt Today

Closed on Wednesday, the Giza Zoo announced taking measures to protect animals during the storm, like opening shelters and cleaning their cages with water, besides veterinarians’ regular check-up.

Cairo sees highs of 15 °C and lows of 9°C on Wednesday, while Saint Catherine sees the lowest temperature degrees recording highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C.