DAMMAM — The residents of the Eastern Province woke this morning to a sand-enveloped town with their cars, outhouses and the city in general absolutely bathed in sand. The severe sandstorm on Wednesday, one of the worst in the past decade, brought the entire city to a standstill.
The strong winds and thick dust created havoc on the streets of Al-Khobar, Dammam, Sihat, Thuqba, Qatif, Al-Ahsa, Jubail and as far as Al-Khafji.
The Civil Defense Department along with the Metrology department issued warning to citizens and residents to remain indoors and come out only in emergency conditions but equipped with masks and full sleeve clothing.
The control tower at the King Fahd International Airport reported delays of several flights. However, by this morning absolute normalcy was restored at the airport with decent visibility but wind blowing at 38 kph.
The municipal department had a tough task in the morning of returning the city back to its normal looks, though there were still areas that were covered by sand.
The traffic department did a commendable job Wednesday night as patrols braved strong winds and thick sands at near zero visibility and kept a close vigil on the highways as well as on the sensitive spots in the city.
The hospitals in Dammam, Al-Khobar, Ahsa, Qatif and Jubail have reported several emergency cases of asthmatic attack and allergies. The health department has urged citizens and residents to use mask when they go outdoor and take all preventive measures outlined by the Ministry of Health in its fight against MERS.
An official spokesperson said that such storms bring in viral diseases and infections.
The Coast Guard has also issued warning to people to keep away from deep waters and avoid swimming in the sea in this weather.
The Saudi Arabian Transport Company (SAPTCO) also reported some major adjustments in its schedule to its fleet operating from Dammam Terminal.
Condition at King Fahd Saudi-Bahraini Causeway was normal as people decided to remain indoors despite the weekend.
Beaches and fast food joints wore deserted looks and so did the market place in Al Khobar and Dammam.
