Sandstorm: meaning, definitions and examples
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sandstorm
[ ˈsændˌstɔrm ]
natural phenomenon
A sandstorm is a meteorological event characterized by strong winds that lift large amounts of sand and dust from the ground into the atmosphere. These storms typically occur in arid and semi-arid regions, where loose sand is abundant. Sandstorms can reduce visibility to nearly zero and can cause significant health issues due to respiratory problems from inhaling dust. They can also disrupt transportation and damage infrastructure. The severity of a sandstorm can vary, ranging from minor dust events to major storms that impact large areas.
Synonyms
dust storm, dust storm, sand gale.
Examples of usage
- The sandstorm created a curtain of dust over the desert.
- Residents were advised to stay indoors during the sandstorm.
- Visibility was nearly zero due to the raging sandstorm.
- The sandstorm lasted for several hours, affecting travel plans.
Translations
Translations of the word "sandstorm" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tempestade de areia
🇮🇳 बालू का तूफान
🇩🇪 Sandsturm
🇮🇩 badai pasir
🇺🇦 пісочна буря
🇵🇱 burza piaskowa
🇯🇵 砂嵐
🇫🇷 tempête de sable
🇪🇸 tormenta de arena
🇹🇷 kum fırtınası
🇰🇷 모래 폭풍
🇸🇦 عاصفة رملية
🇨🇿 písečná bouře
🇸🇰 piesková búrka
🇨🇳 沙尘暴
🇸🇮 peščena nevihta
🇮🇸 sandstormur
🇰🇿 құмды дауыл
🇬🇪 ქვიშის ქარიშხალი
🇦🇿 qum fırtınası
🇲🇽 tormenta de arena
Etymology
The term 'sandstorm' originates from the combination of two English words: 'sand' and 'storm'. 'Sand' comes from the Old English word 'sandi', which has Germanic roots, referring to loose granular material found on beaches and in deserts. 'Storm' also traces back to Old English 'storm', meaning a violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds and usually rain, thunder, lightning, or snow. Together, they describe a specific type of storm characterized by the lifting of sand particles. Sandstorms are particularly common in desert regions, reflecting the geographical and environmental conditions necessary for their formation. Historically, these storms have been documented for centuries, influencing travel, trade, and even warfare in regions like the Middle East and North Africa.