A file photo of airborne dust and sand in Cairo. Ahram.
The dusty conditions are currently affecting a wide corridor stretching from the north through Greater Cairo and across both Upper and Lower Egypt.
Upper Egypt, including Aswan in the country's far south, is now also being impacted, with the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA) warning that visibility there is expected to deteriorate further as the day progresses.
The EMA urged residents to take precautions, advising people to stay away from dilapidated buildings, billboards, trees, and lampposts that could become hazardous in high winds.
Individuals with respiratory conditions are also advised to wear masks before heading outside, and motorists are warned to drive with caution.
The EMA expects conditions to improve by the end of the day.
Earlier on Saturday, Health Ministry Spokesperson Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar issued an urgent nationwide advisory regarding the turbulent weather, identifying those with chronic respiratory issues as the most at risk.
He warned that individuals suffering from chest allergies, shortness of breath, or bronchial problems must implement strict preventive measures without delay.
Abdel-Ghaffar urged residents to avoid stepping outside unless absolutely necessary, emphasizing that wearing a protective mask is essential if going out is unavoidable.
Inside the home, he advised the public to ensure they are in well-ventilated spaces while strictly avoiding crowded indoor areas where contagion risks are higher.
Hydration is also key to lung health, with the spokesman recommending a daily intake of no less than two litres of water to maintain healthy blood flow to the respiratory system.
Furthermore, frequent cleaning and disinfecting of floors and household surfaces is crucial to minimize the accumulation of indoor dust and contaminants, he added.
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