CAIRO: The yearly Khamaseen sandstorm hit several areas of Egypt on Wednesday including Cairo, Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh, Suez and Assuit, which resulted in paralyzing many highways; due to the lack of visibility on the roads. The sandstorm originates from yearly local storms in North Africa which travel to Egypt, usually arriving in the month of April. Dr. Ali Qotb, the official spokesperson of the Egyptian Meteorological Authority, stated on Channel One of Egyptian TV on Wednesday that the speed of the sandstorm has reached more than 60 km/h across Cairo, Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh and all the desert highways. El-Ahram reported. Qotb also warned drivers across the country to drive carefully due to the low visibility and strong winds on the roads. Qotub expected that the sandstorm to end today and the weather conditions to improve. However, the temperature will decrease, according to him. Moreover, the Red Sea Ports Authority also announced that the four main ports in Suez have been closed due to the sandstorm. Cairo International Airport also declared emergency status as the reduction in visibility makes it hard for airplanes to take off and land.
