Experts from Hebrew University have warned that sandstorms like the recent one in Israel are expected to become more frequent and occur earlier due to climate change. Researcher Asaf Hochman noted that the storm, caused by a weather system near Libya, transported sand from North Africa over a distance of 2,000 kilometers to Israel. These storms typically occur in spring and fall, but this year’s event happened sooner than usual.
Hochman explained that with dry conditions and strong winds, dust can travel vast distances and reach high altitudes. He also mentioned that similar storms can affect regions beyond Israel, including Europe and the United States. While the recent storm was intense, it was not unprecedented, recalling the severe 2015 sandstorm.
The researchers are studying how rising CO2 levels from fossil fuel use are impacting seasonal lengths, predicting shorter winters and longer summers. They anticipate that earlier springs will lead to more frequent sandstorms, affecting agriculture and public health in Israel.
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